I am dreading next month. My son is going to celebrating his birthday soon and like any other millennial he wants a phone as his birthday gift. As much as I want to get him anything that he wants, as it is his special day, I can’t stop and wonder, “What is the best age to buy a phone for your kid?” 

I know I have to keep emotions aside and think logically. Age has nothing to do with what is the best age to buy a cell phone for a child. It has more to do with being responsible and mature to be able to handle one of the advanced pieces of technology. Cell phones and internet can be a lethal combination. Cyberbullying, trolling, and safety of children are all things that we, as a mother, try to protect our children from. 

Having said that, my son does need a phone as he attends a lot of classes after school and takes public transport for commuting. Keeping in touch with him with definitely make me less anxious about his whereabouts.

So, I made a list of questions that will help me reach a decision.

1. How often does your child lose things?
2. Does he value money?
3. Does he follow house rules religiously?
4. Does he have a healthy relationship with his friends?
5. What do they need the phone for?
6. What is the time limit you will set for mobile usage?
7. Can you monitor the content they watch on the phone?

A child needs to be responsible before a smartphone is given in their hands. A smartphone can track a child’s location, make him a victim of cyberbullying, turn him into a bully, pedophiles, etc. It is a scary world out there and with a smartphone in a child’s hand with no information on how to protect themselves, it can turn ugly quickly.

Before you decide the best age to buy a cell phone, you should have a talk with your child about the following things.

1. Social Media and How to Use it Wisely
2. Importance of not posting every detail on social media.
3. Geotagging and picture sharing.
4. Social Civic Sense
5. Rules to Use Phone Wisely.

There is no best age to buy a phone for your kids as each kid is different from the other. You can prepare your child to use the phone within reasonable limits and appropriately. House rules regarding mobile usage should be strict and adhered to.

phone for your kids as each kid is different from the other. You can prepare your child to use the phone within reasonable limits and appropriately. House rules regarding mobile usage should be strict and adhered to.

 Also Read: 5 ways to understand teenagers better

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