05/11/2024

Choosing the right phone for a child. When, which and other questions.

Phone for a child

Hey, dear parents! You know that feeling when your child asks you for a mobile phone for the first time?

Yes, I went through that too. I remember that I was a bit panicked (my first thought was: Well, it’s too early, so what now..).

But let’s go through this together and find the best solution for our little ones!

The first phone for a child – a big step for a little man!

Do you remember your first phone?

I remember mine – it was the size of a brick and could only call and text. But times have changed, and our child’s first phone is much more than that. Here are some things to think about:

1. Start simple: Like I said – you don’t need to buy the latest iPhone or Galaxy Ultra right away. Start with a basic model that has the essentials – the ability to call, text, and maybe a few educational apps.

2. Explore together: Make buying your first phone a family adventure. Go to the store together, let your child try on different models (under your supervision, of course. They’ll usually go for an expensive model right away). Explain to him that the phone is primarily used to communicate with you, not for gaming.

3. Set the rules from the beginning: Before giving the phone to a child, sit down and discuss the rules of use. Make it a casual conversation, not a stern lesson. Maybe you can even create a “family phone agreement” and sign it together – sounds like fun, right? It is important that the child understands that he gets to use the phone with some obligations.

4. Be prepared to make mistakes: Kids will be kids. They might exceed the allowed time on their phone or visit a site they shouldn’t. Don’t panic! These are opportunities for learning, not punishment.

5. Grow together: As your child grows, so will their phone needs. Be prepared to adjust the rules and meet the needs for a new model when the time comes.

And finally, don’t forget – you are the parent, you know your child best. There is no universal solution that suits everyone. Your child may need a phone earlier or later than other children, and that’s okay.

Choosing the right phone for a child

When choosing a mobile phone for your child, keep the following things in mind:

1. Age of the child: For younger children (ages 7-10), consider simple phones with limited functions. For older children (11+), smartphones may be more suitable, but with parental controls.
2. Durability: Children are active and phones can be easily damaged. Look for models that are more durable or buy a quality protective mask.
3. Battery life: A long battery life is important, not so that the child will be on the phone longer, but so that you don’t have to worry about the battery dying every time the child is away from home, at school or on an excursion.
4. Parental controls: Choose a phone that allows you to easily set parental controls to limit content and usage time.

Affordable phones for children – do they exist?

The good news is – yes, they exist! You don’t have to break the bank to afford your child’s first phone. Here are some options that won’t empty your wallet:

1. Used or refurbished models: Sound a bit stingy? Whatever! That’s smart parenting. Kids often lose or damage things, so this is a great way to give them a “real” phone without spending a lot of money.
2. Postpaid models: Many operators offer affordable phones with a contract. This can be a good option if you are also thinking of changing your package.
3. Mobile phones on sale: Look for new mobile phones that are on sale in stores in Serbia. Find budget models that are quite enough for the child and his needs, even if you have the financial means for expensive phone models!

Recommendations for healthy phone usage habits

As parents, it is our responsibility to set clear rules and encourage healthy phone habits:

1. Set time limits: Set a specific time during the day when the child can use the phone, for example, 1-2 hours after school.
2. Phone-free zones: Establish areas in the home where phones are not allowed, such as the dining room or bedroom.
3. Be a role model: Children learn by observing. Limit your own phone usage and dedicate yourself to quality time with your family.
4. Encourage other activities: Encourage children to play sports, read books or play outside instead of spending time on the phone.
5. Talk about digital safety: Teach children about the importance of privacy, the dangers of sharing personal information and how to recognize inappropriate content.

Protecting the child from bad habits on the phone

Here are some strategies to protect your child from developing bad phone habits:

1. Use apps to monitor and restrict: Install apps that allow you to monitor your child’s phone usage and limit access to certain apps or content.
2. Establish a “nighttime routine”: Set a time when phones are turned off before bed, including parents’ phones (I know this sounds impossible, but it’s doable).
3. Reward responsible use: Praise your child for obeying the phone rules and consider small rewards for good behavior.
4. Learn about apps: Stay up-to-date on popular apps among kids and learn about their potential risks.
5. Open Communication: Maintain open and honest communication with your child about their phone use. Make them feel safe to contact you if they come across disturbing content. Children must not be ashamed or afraid to address you!

The most important thing is to stay connected with your child – and not through the screen, but through conversations, hugs and joint adventures. The phone is only an addition to your relationship with your child, not a replacement for it.

So, take a deep breath, smile and start this new adventure with your child. There will be ups and downs, but hey, that’s what parenting is like, right?

You can do it!

Good luck!