Should kids have cell phones and at what age?

As a parent, keeping your kids safe is top of mind. Part of that means checking in with them and knowing what they're up to when they’re not with you. Text messages and phone calls make that easy. On the other hand, giving kids a cell phone might lead them to be glued to their screen all day long. So, the question remains: Should kids have cell phones, and what is a good age to get a phone? 

Pros and cons of kids having cell phones

The debate over whether or not kids should have cell phones largely centers around safety.

Advantages:

1. Staying connected: No more wondering — your kids can message you and let you know exactly when or where to pick them up from school or soccer practice? Whether it’s a text to say they’ve arrived safely or a selfie from their first school trip, cell phones are great for easing your worries.

2. Emergencies: Unpredictable situations can arise. Knowing your child can call for help is comforting. 

3. Learning and productivity: From educational apps to setting reminders for homework, your child's cell phone can be a powerful educational tool. 

Disadvantages:

1. Too much screen time: The digital world is vast, but so is the real world outside. Striking a balance is key, and that can be hard for kids to manage.

2. Online exposure: With connectivity comes potential threats. Cyberbullying, negative effects of social media, and inappropriate content are just the tip of the iceberg. 

3. Distractions: Ever tried getting the attention of a teen engrossed in an app or game? It can be challenging — but establishing rules and boundaries around screen time can help.

To help children safely navigate the digital world, have open conversations about potential issues and your expectations around phone use. Discuss cyberbullying and how to handle any uncomfortable interactions online. Talk about avoiding sharing personal information and being cautious about interacting with strangers. Set clear guidelines around what content is appropriate to view.

Greenlight tip: Did you know? With Greenlight’s Infinity plan, kids and teens get access to SOS alerts, crash detection, and location sharing so you can keep them safe — wherever they go.

Factors to consider ✅

Phone ownership calls for careful consideration. When thinking about if your child is ready, ponder these factors:

1. Maturity level: Some 10-year-olds might be ready for their own phones, while some 15-year-olds might not be.

2. Responsibility: Does the cell phone get in the way of school or chores? Can they look after it? Maybe forgo the latest iPhone until they've proved to you that they aren't going to lose or break it. Speaking of which, did you know Greenlight Max offers coverage for up to 5 phones, with annual coverage of up to $1,000 per phone? At least those accidental drops will be covered.

3. Safety concerns: Equipping them with knowledge about potential threats is essential. A cell phone will open them up to the world in ways that can be difficult for a child or teen to navigate on their own. Be their guide.

Age-appropriate phone ownership 📲

Your kids may want a cell phone because they see peers with them. It's easy to imagine how not having a cell phone might exclude your kids from certain social connections. But, there's no hard-and-fast rule about when is the right time. Wondering whether 11-year-olds should have phones or if 12-year-olds should have phones doesn't get to the heart of the matter.

Again, it goes back to maturity, and that's an individual quality. If you think your child will take care of the phone and use it responsibly, within the limits you set, then it may be no issue. You can also ease them into cell phone ownership. For example, a child under 11 or 12 might start with a simple device just for calls. You could upgrade to a smartphone for your teen, but consider tying it to responsibilities with the chores and allowance app for kids (and if they're not ready for a phone, Greenlight's apps work on tablets, too!). 

Preparing children for cell phone ownership 🎉

Handing over the phone is the easy part. Preparing them for the digital realm? That’s where the real work is. Here are some things to discuss with your child:

1. Digital etiquette: If you wouldn't say it face to face, don't text it. Text as you talk.

2. Online safety: Equip them with knowledge about predators, scams, and misinformation.

3. Usage limits: Set your family’s rules! For example: Phones down at dinner and away at bedtime. Set screen time limits. Balance is everything.

Another important aspect of preparing kids for phones is teaching financial responsibility. Most phones require monthly service plans, so discuss who will cover these costs and set expectations. If they plan to contribute, help them research the best jobs for teens or, for your budding entrepreneur, how to start a business as a kid.

Also, talk about responsible purchasing from app stores — do they need to ask permission before downloading paid apps? To help them learn smart spending habits, try tools like Greenlight's financial literacy game to teach money skills. When they're ready, you can help them set up an investing app for kids.

Empower kids and teens to be independent and stay safe

Independence? Yes. Safety? Absolutely.

Beyond directly monitoring your child's phone, you can promote responsible use through ongoing conversations. Ask about their favorite apps and websites so you better understand their digital world. Discuss healthy time limits and not using phones in unsafe situations, like crossing the road. Share examples of your own helpful and harmful phone habits so they learn from your experience. Making digital wellness a recurring dialogue will keep them engaged.

The bottom line — is your child ready?

To phone or not to phone? It's not just about age. It’s about maturity, responsibility, and ensuring they’re ready for the digital world. Every kid is unique. You know yours best. Whatever you decide, it will help your kids be prepared if you explain the reasoning to them.

While cell phones for kids can provide many benefits, from security to education, they also require guidance, boundaries, and open communication between parents and children. With compassion and patience on both sides, families can collectively make the best decisions for their needs. 

Empower your kids and teens to live their best life, while keeping them safe and staying connected. Dive into the world of Greenlight Infinity and make parenting a tad easier.

Greenlight is a financial technology company, not a bank. The Greenlight app facilitates banking services through Community Federal Savings Bank (CFSB), Member FDIC.