It’s no secret that kids these days are way better with technology than their parents. They’ve got TikTok, games, and endless apps all on their phones. So if you’re thinking about getting your child a smartphone it’s not a matter of if but when. But before you go ahead and buy one there are seven important things you should think about first.
Ensure that you and your child are aware of the justification for your decision to give them a smartphone
Make sure your child is getting a smartphone for the intended purposes, such as monitoring where they are when they walk home alone or staying in contact with family.
Since screen addiction illnesses are becoming more common in kids, you should think carefully about whether your child’s phone is a good idea in the long run.
Create guidelines and limits
You and your child need to talk about boundaries before you get the smartphone. Setting guidelines and time restrictions for phone use is also necessary. A few phone models come with better parental control tools and timings built right in.
Apps like NetNanny, Norton Family, and Kaspersky Safe Kids also let you read text messages, block specific websites, and examine your search history.
Select the operating system based on what your family need
When it comes to parental management, Android cell phones provide more alternatives than iPhones. Additionally, parental controls are available on some devices but not on others. Thus, before deciding on a certain phone, educate yourself on parental settings and the iOS and Android operating systems.
Consider the cost of the smartphone
Choosing a more reasonably priced smartphone is the best course of action if this is your child’s first smartphone purchase.
Youngsters often misplace, neglect, or break their phones quite readily. As a result, investing in a less expensive smartphone is a safer idea as they learn to handle phones responsibly.
Pick a less expensive mobile plan
Although you might choose a more expensive smartphone plan for yourself, this is most definitely not a wise choice for your child’s first smartphone. Selecting a less expensive phone plan will stop your kid from utilizing a lot of data or making in-app purchases.
Examine the storage capacity of the smartphone
A smartphone’s price usually increases with its storage capacity. As a result, you ought to pick a phone with an SD card port and mid-tier smartphone storage. This guarantees that your child won’t go over budget for storage space.
Buy a good-quality smartphone case
Investing in a durable phone case for your child’s phone is essential. Since some phones have fewer alternatives than others, you should research the range of phone cases that are available for the model that you are considering.
A good phone case protects the body and screen. In the end, it lengthens the smartphone’s lifespan and saves you from having to buy your kid a new phone every few months.
What features should you look for in a kid-friendly smartphone?
1. Parental Controls
Parental controls are essential when it comes to your child’s first smartphone. Look for a device that allows you to set limits on screen time, block certain apps or websites, and monitor your child’s online activity. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your child is using their smartphone responsibly.
2. Durability
Kids can be rough on their belongings, so it’s important to choose a smartphone that can withstand drops and spills. Look for a device with a durable case or one that is water-resistant to protect against accidents.
3. Age-Appropriate Content
Choose a smartphone that offers age-appropriate content and apps for your child. Some devices come pre-loaded with educational games and activities that are perfect for young children.
4. Emergency Features
Safety should be a top priority when choosing your child’s first smartphone. Look for a device that has built-in emergency features, such as the ability to call for help with the push of a button or GPS tracking in case of an emergency.
5. Battery Life
Kids can easily forget to charge their devices, so it’s important to choose a smartphone with long battery life. Look for a device that can last all day on a single charge to avoid any disruptions.
6. Affordability
While you want to provide your child with a reliable smartphone, it’s also important to consider your budget. Look for a device that offers a balance between quality and affordability, so you can feel confident in your purchase.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, choosing the right smartphone for your child involves careful consideration of various factors, from cost and storage capacity to parental controls and durability. By following these seven tips, you can make an informed decision that meets your child’s needs and preferences while ensuring a safe and responsible smartphone experience.
