Navigating Kids and Smartphones: Timing, Reasons, and Considerations
The question arises sooner than expected: “Mom, can I have a phone? Everyone else has one!” In the United States, children typically receive their first phone around the age of 10. Despite their young minds still developing, it has become a norm to give smartphones—designed for adults—to kids.
In this episode of Live.Work.Thrive, a panel of experts discusses the advantages of postponing smartphone ownership, how to assess your child’s readiness, and tips for creating a digital agreement with them. Dr. Sarah Johnson, a child development specialist, shares insights on the importance of boredom, self-regulation, and unstructured playtime.
Host Micaela Birmingham understands the challenges of delaying smartphone use; she decided against giving her daughters phones, despite being one of the few parents at their middle school to do so. Interestingly, one of her daughters encountered a babysitter mishap and found herself lost in Manhattan at night. However, she remained calm and sought help from a doorman to borrow a phone to contact her mother, proving that the analog world still has its merits.
We also hear from Lisa Greene, the founder of Wait Until 8th, a nationwide initiative encouraging parents to delay smartphone use in their communities. She even provides a tutorial on how to remove unnecessary apps from an iPhone, ensuring your child can only text and call—saving you a trip to tech support!
With new apps and games emerging daily, parents often struggle to keep up, especially with tools they don’t regularly use. Fortunately, Common Sense Media offers a wide range of resources for parents, including app ratings, reviews, and guides. Finally, you can understand what Discord is all about! Vicki Saylor from Family and Community Education joins the panel to highlight additional free resources offered by Common Sense Media.
When you’re ready to introduce a smartphone to your child, experts generally recommend a gradual approach. A mom who gained attention for her iPhone contract with her son has since become a sought-after speaker and media expert. Tune in to Live.Work.Thrive to hear Janell Burley discuss how to begin navigating your child’s technology habits.
Childhood is fleeting, yet the learning curve associated with social media and smartphones can be prolonged. Stay informed, take your time, and ensure you are the one your child turns to when challenges arise. Together, you and your child can thrive in this digital age.
For more insights, check out our related posts here: Home Insemination Kit and Intracervical Insemination, which offer valuable information on family planning.
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Summary:
The conversation around when to give children smartphones is becoming increasingly relevant as kids express the desire for their own devices at younger ages. Experts stress the importance of delaying smartphone ownership to foster development and encourage self-regulation. With resources available for parents, including digital contracts and app guides, families can navigate this transition thoughtfully and successfully.