At what age should children get their own mobile?

MSE_Rosie

Deciding when to give your child a mobile phone can be a difficult decision. On the one hand, they're a great way to encourage independence, on the other, screen time can be addictive. So this week, we're asking what age you think is appropriate for children to get their first mobile phone.

Click here to vote in the poll.

Did you vote? Are you surprised at the results so far? Have your say below.
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Thanks!

guiriman

Pretty big difference between just a mobile phone and a smart phone, and again between a smart phone with a data plan and one without. Not sure this poll really tells us much

jelephant

Entirely anecdotal observation, but I have coached gymnastics for the last couple of decades now and every year at our show we allow the girls to take in toys, colouring etc to pass the time backstage where they have a wait between routines on the stage. For years and years the girls would play and chat and colour together, but for the last few years (ignoring pandemics of course) the gym has been eerily silent as they all sit staring at phone and iPad screens, not laughing or chatting like they used to, including the younger age groups (6-8) to an extent too. It makes me worry for their ability to socialise and simply how little laughter there is. It is very sad to see.

DigSunPap

I am 24 years old now and the first phone I had I think I was around 7 years old. But it was only one of the old Nokia models. I don't think it was until secondary school that I would say I got my first proper phone, and I feel like this is about the right age as you become more independent. Although, it is different today as children are exposed to smart phone, tablets etc from a much earlier age.