At what age should a child have a phone? This is a question that sparks much debate amongst parents. Recent research from Ofcom found that a fifth of three and four-year-olds already have their own phone and use them for various online activities, including social media. Although some people argue for a specific age, we believe it’s best to decide on a child-by-child basis. While there isn't any one “right” age, there are some key factors to consider when determining if your child is ready for their first smartphone. The decision involves a delicate balance between safety and responsibility.

Developmental Readiness and Maturity

Every child is unique and their readiness to have a phone differs. While some children demonstrate responsibility and maturity at a young age, others may require more time to develop these skills. A child's ability to understand the consequences of their actions, follow parental guidelines, and behave responsibly online should be key factors in deciding if they are ready for their first smartphone. Rather than basing it on age, parents should assess their child's readiness based on their individual characteristics, behaviour, and level of digital literacy.

Setting Boundaries and Monitoring Usage 

Parents play a significant role in determining when their child is ready for their first phone. While it depends on the individual child's maturity level, it also relies on parents' ability to establish guidelines and monitor phone use. In 2019, the World Health Organization explained that under-fives should have no more than an hour of screen time. This is due to research linking high levels of screen time to delayed development of children aged 2-5 years old (The Guardian, 2023). Therefore, it is essential for parents to set clear boundaries around screen time and app usage, teaching children the importance of balancing online activities with real-world interactions. It’s also important for parents to restrict access to non-appropriate content and regularly discuss online safety. Parents should actively supervise their child's online activities, staying involved and aware of the apps they use, websites they visit, and the people they interact with. By staying engaged, any issues that arise can be quickly addressed and resolved.

Addressing Safety Concerns

A key reason parents consider giving their child a phone is to ensure their safety and stay connected. If your child is at an age where they are taking part in more independent activities, like walking to school alone or heading out with friends alone, having a phone can provide a sense of security for both you and your child. The ability to contact one another in case of emergencies or unexpected situations is an important reason to consider getting your child a phone. This doesn’t need to be a smartphone, but if the phone is connected to the internet, it’s essential for parents to supervise online activity. While smartphones can improve safety, this connectivity can also harm children if they lack an understanding of online conduct. 

Understanding Online Safety and Responsible Phone Use

The ability to stay safe online and use a phone responsibly are crucial skills children must understand prior to receiving their first smartphone. It’s important to guide children through how to use their new device as a tool for empowerment, rather than distraction. They should have a basic understanding of online safety, such as the consequences of sharing personal information, how to identify misinformation, and how to navigate cyberbullying and online predators. It is the responsibility of parents to have open conversations with their children about these topics and seek out guidance on safe internet use. But we know it can be difficult for parents to know where to start, and that’s where helpful educational tools like Natterhub Home come in. Through educational programs and engaging lessons, children can learn everything they need to know about digital safety in a secure and nurturing environment.

Prepare your child for their first phone with Natterhub Home

Utilising online safety tools and educational programs like Natterhub Home can be hugely beneficial in preparing your child for their first phone. Natterhub Home is an educational program that empowers parents to teach their children about internet safety and privacy. Designed especially for 5-11 year olds to complete at home, this unique solution delivers interactive lessons in a safe environment. As well as being a lot of fun to complete, the Natterhub Home activities equip children with essential digital literacy skills, promoting responsible online behaviour and preparing kids for their first smartphone. The platform covers a wide range of topics including cyberbullying, identifying misinformation, sharing and safeguarding private information, and the importance of respectful communication online. 

This foundation of knowledge will help children to better understand the responsibilities that come with using a phone. Parents can also easily monitor their child's progress through a dedicated parent dashboard, where they can assign priorities and motivate children with personalised rewards. Why not use Natterhub Home as a way for children to work towards getting their first phone? The knowledge and skills learned from the engaging lessons will instil a sense of confidence and preparedness as children venture into the world of smartphones. Get started by signing up for a free trial here.

Five Considerations Before Giving your Child a Phone

Remember, every child is different, so the decision to give them a phone should be tailored to their individual needs and your own family values. Let’s take a look at five things you should consider before giving your child a phone:

• Age and Maturity Level: Is your child mature enough and developmentally ready to handle a smartphone?
• Purpose and Need: Determine the reason your child needs a phone. Will they be going out without a trusted adult? If so, is the phone primarily for safety and communication?
• Digital Literacy and Online Safety Education: Ensure your child can responsibly use a phone and has a solid understanding of online safety by using educational programs like Natterhub Home.
• Cost and Responsibility: A smartphone can be expensive, so it’s important that your child understands the costs associated with having a phone, including data plans, paid apps and potential repairs.
• Rules and Guidelines: Establish clear expectations before giving your child their first phone and set rules around screen time and usage (e.g. do not use during meal times or at bedtime).

So, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the initial question ‘at what age should a child have a phone?’. As we’ve discussed, it is more important to consider the individual child's maturity level, readiness and knowledge about using a phone safely. Striking a balance between safety, education, and responsible usage is crucial. When you feel that both you and your child are ready, be sure to discuss digital safety with them and set clear expectations. It’s also incredibly important to encourage open and honest communication when they do receive their device. While some children will be ready at a younger age, others may need more time and guidance. As parents, it is our responsibility to assess our child's readiness and use educational tools to provide them with the necessary skills to navigate the digital world responsibly.