Phone Time Anyone have advice on when is too early for a child to have a phone? Our oldest...

how are you suppose to keep tabs on your child?

what happens if something happens to them or they get lost or they're going to be late or need help?

seriously?

parental guidance already! think about it.

:/

SW-User

I think many people provide phones for their kids when they are 13 but she should agree you will have access to her phone and review what she is doing.

Skilllickous · 51-55, M

Hun it’s about time that’s the right age
But listen to ur heart how u fell
Don’t let any body tell you right or wrong

SW-User

A familiar story! Lol

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SW-User

I'd get her one just in case of emergencies, just get one of the 'old' phones that don't have internet and then put her on a phone plan so that she can only call family.

There's no other reason to have one at that age, other than because the other kids have one.

TuxedoMask · M

I think 13 is fine, i got my first one when i was 14. You can alwats get her a straight talk (just pay each month with a card if you don’t pay you don’t get charged) so if you decide she’s not ready just don’t get a new card. It’s about 40 for a months card.

SW-User

Have a child,a similar age. And we have a Family spate phone,which all our kids can use to message there friends. And if the eldest goes out,she takes the phone. Only costs £4 a month

SW-User

I think it all depends if they need one. My son didn't want one but it's so useful if he has one. He's very responsible with it.

MaryJo1996 · 26-30, F

13 is fine. I had one as soon as i started high school at 11. Just put the right parental controls on, etc. so she isn't doing stuff she shouldnt be.

dumpstermeow · 41-45, F

I got my first phone when I was 19. Times are different now, I'd say 13 is definitely old enough... the plus side is that you'll always be able to contact her.

LindaJeanne · 51-55, F

I'd say 13 is a okay age to give her a phone. She is a teenager and it will be good to be able to reach her if she is out with friends.

Picklebobble2 · 56-60, M

Makes sense from a perspective of always knowing where she is.
Gives her no excuses for not making contact.

Benjr134 · M

My neice was 13. I still think it wasn’t a great idea.

chrisCA · M

My kids had phones at that age.

FreeSpirit1 · 51-55, F

13 but check the apps regularly

Mildreadful · F

13 is definitely old enough ^^

SINAI · T

Get her a flip phone.

samueltyler2 · 80-89, M

You decide if she "needs one." My grandsons all have after school.activities and need a way to stay in touch for their "chauffeur," son the received phones.

romper69 · 51-55, M

On the one hand there is the peer pressure she might be under and it is good to have one in emergencies. On the other there's her "safety" and cost to consider. Hate to be in your shoes to be honest.