Wicker got his kids their first phone when they each turned 12......but he had specific reasons. Wilde's kids don't have opposable thumbs so she never had to think about it but what is the right age to get your kid their first cell phone? Parents who are considering buying a phone for their child should start with asking themselves a few questions first, according to family coach and author of “First Phone,” a child's guide to digital responsibility and safety, Dr. Catherine Pearlman.
She recommends parents consider:
- Is there a specific need for a phone? Pearlman notes that there doesn’t have to be one, but if a child will be home alone or walking independently from school, it might be helpful.
- How well does the child accept limitations on screen time?
- How responsible is the child with important belongings?
- How open is the child to learning and discussing topics around digital education?
Once parents decide to get their kid a phone, Pearlman says they should be aware of five digital safety concerns for kids:
Online predators and scams. Even adults can fall prey to scammers since they’re very good at their job.
- What is your child’s digital footprint?
- Where are they sharing data?
- Where do they have accounts?
- What social media is the child on and what are they doing on there? What content are they watching? How are they interacting?
- How is the child affected by social media, cyberbullying, screen time, etc.?- - Who is influencing your child? What are they selling? How much does the child understand that influencers are posting ads, like commercials, and selling items, because they’re paid to do so?
Pearlman says these are red flags parents should watch out for in kids with smartphones:
- They seem to be dropping activities they once loved or are seeing friends less. It could be because of increased screen time, cyber bullying or an unsafe relationship online.
- Lack of motivation to do anything but screen time.
- Secrecy. If they’re always hiding what’s on their phone, there could be a reason for concern.
There is a lot to think about.....good luck! And you can always call Wicker & Wilde to ask other listeners what they think. 1-833-804-9898.
