Deciding when to give a child their first phone is one of the most common dilemmas for parents of older children.
There is no perfect age. The right time depends on your child and your family’s needs.
Consider the need
Does your child travel independently or need to contact you regularly? A basic phone without internet access can meet communication needs without the risks of a smartphone.
Assess readiness
Do they follow rules about screens now?
Can they look after belongings?
Do they understand online safety and privacy?
Will they talk to you if something goes wrong online?
Start with limits
Use parental controls, limit apps, and keep phones out of bedrooms at night. Give more freedom gradually as trust builds.
Make an agreement
A written family phone agreement sets expectations about when, where, and how the phone is used, and what happens if rules are broken.
Keep talking
Ongoing conversations about online experiences, friendships, and safety matter more than any single rule.
This is general parenting information, not medical advice. Every child is different — talk to your paediatrician, family doctor, or a qualified specialist about your child’s health, development, or behaviour. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.
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