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If you’re thinking about getting your child their first phone, it’s important to consider several factors, including their readiness, safety online, and the best type of phone. While a study indicates that many tweens and teens believe age 12 is appropriate for a first phone, experts suggest that waiting might be beneficial, as phone usage can impact academic performance. To help navigate this decision, experts provide advice on assessing your child’s maturity and ensuring their safety on social media.
Here are five key considerations to evaluate before making the choice to give your child their first phone:
Establish Want Versus Need: If your child wants a new iPhone but you have different plans, such as giving them an older model, it can serve as a valuable lesson in personal finance. Ron Lieber, author and financial columnist, emphasizes that every significant purchase is an opportunity to teach kids about distinguishing between wants and needs. Once a need is established, the next question is how much is enough, which involves considering the type of phone, its features, and data plans. Lieber suggests starting with a basic flip phone to test responsibility, with the option to upgrade after a few months if they prove they can take care of it.
Learn Their ‘Why’: To understand your child’s desire for a smartphone, it’s important to explore their motivations. Sierra Filucci from Common Sense Media suggests discussing whether their interest is driven by social status or specific apps popular among their friends. Parents should investigate those apps to ensure they align with their values before making a purchase. When kids claim that “everyone” has a phone, Filucci advises skepticism, especially for those under 16, as this may be a tactic to persuade parents. While acknowledging the significant role phones play in tween social life, she notes that having a phone can be crucial for staying connected with peers outside of school.
Assess Their Maturity: There isn’t a specific age that indicates a child is ready for a smartphone, but maturity indicators can help determine readiness. Sierra Filucci suggests evaluating whether your child demonstrates responsibility, reliability, and the ability to keep track of their belongings. For instance, if they often forget their backpack, they may struggle with an expensive phone. If you believe a phone would benefit them despite these challenges, consider providing additional support initially. Tools like tracking apps, Apple AirTags, or visual reminders can assist them in managing their device until they develop better organizational skills.
Raise a Digital Citizen: Once you’ve determined your child is ready for their first phone, it’s crucial to set boundaries and expectations. Mariah Bruehl emphasizes the importance of discussing the concept of a digital footprint, explaining that online actions can have long-lasting consequences.
Consider creating a contract that outlines the phone’s privileges, including:
- Usage Guidelines: Specify when and where the phone can be used, such as limiting use during meals or homework time.
- Usage Rules: Set expectations regarding responsible usage, app downloads, and the care of the device.
- Financial Responsibilities: Teach personal finance by having your child contribute to the data plan or cover costs for lost or damaged devices.
- Digital Etiquette: Include behavioral expectations, such as treating others with respect and avoiding inappropriate communications.
While the contract can’t cover every scenario, it can serve as a foundation for ongoing discussions about online behavior and its potential consequences. Callahan Walsh advises a simple rule: “Don’t send a text unless you’re OK with sharing it with your grandmother.”
Help Keep Them Safe: Parenting in the smartphone age can be daunting, but resources like NetSmartz and Common Sense Media can help bridge the information gap between parents and kids. These platforms provide guidance on privacy settings, recognizing online threats, and understanding issues like cyberbullying and sextortion. While monitoring tools are available to track children’s online activity, experts caution that constant surveillance isn’t the best solution. Instead, maintaining open communication is key. Parents should encourage kids to approach them with concerns and ensure they feel safe discussing sensitive topics.
In conclusion, empowering children to make safe decisions is crucial. Parents can model good online behavior and engage in educational content together. Ultimately, it’s important for parents to maintain access to their child’s apps and passwords, emphasizing that their role is to ensure their children’s safety.
Read More: https://childreninfobank.com/safebank/5-things-to-consider-before-buying-your-child-a-phone/
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