Choosing the Right First Phone for Your Child

24 January 2025

So, your child is asking for their first phone, huh? It feels like just yesterday they were learning to tie their shoes, and now they’re asking for tech that puts the world at their fingertips. As a parent, this decision can leave you with a lot of questions: Is it the right time? What kind of phone should they have? What about safety, screen time, and social media?

It’s a big deal, and rightfully so. Choosing the right first phone for your child doesn’t have to be stressful, though. With a little preparation and some thought about their needs (and yours), you can make an informed decision that works for both of you.

Let’s break this down, shall we?

The Right Time: When Should Your Child Get Their First Phone?

When is the right time to give your child their first phone? The answer isn’t as clear-cut as a specific age, like when they finally hit double digits or move into high school. It really depends on your child’s maturity level, tech-savviness, and your family’s values.

Some children might be ready as young as eight, while others might not need one until they’re thirteen or older. You know your child best, so try asking yourself a few questions:

- Why do they need a phone? Is it for emergencies? To keep in touch with you while they're at activities or school? Or is it mainly for entertainment and social media?
- How responsible are they? Be honest. Can they take care of their belongings and follow set rules? If they regularly lose their backpack or forget their homework, maybe holding off a little longer would be wise.
- Will they adhere to screen time limits? You don’t want to give them a phone only to be in constant battles over the amount of time they spend using it.

Choosing the right time is all about balance. It’s a good idea to monitor your child’s level of independence and responsibility to see if they’re truly ready.

Assessing Your Child’s Needs

Not all phones are created equal, and just like finding the perfect pair of shoes, one size does not fit all. Before you begin shopping, it's important to assess what your child actually needs the phone for.

Is It Just for Communication?

Some children only need a phone to text or call you when they’re at an after-school activity, a friend’s house, or when you’re running late. If that’s the case, a basic phone with limited capabilities might be more appropriate. You can think of it as a “training phone.”

These entry-level phones often include call, text, and sometimes even GPS tracking features but leave out internet browsing or app downloads. It’s like giving them the keys to the car with a speed limiter on; they can drive, but only at a speed you’re comfortable with.

Do They Need Access to the Internet?

If your child needs a phone with internet access, you’re stepping into a much bigger ballpark. With internet access comes a whole host of new concerns, like exposure to inappropriate content, online bullying, or screen addiction.

This scenario suggests that your child might need a smartphone rather than a basic phone. Smartphones provide access to apps, games, and the web — but choosing this route means you’ll need to set strict boundaries on what they can and can’t access online.

Are They Using It for School?

Some schools now require students to use tablets or smartphones for educational purposes. If this is the case, a smartphone would be a no-brainer. Still, you’d want to ensure that educational use doesn’t turn into TikTok binges after homework is done.

Features to Consider When Choosing the Right Phone

Okay, now that we’ve figured out your child’s needs, let’s talk features. With a sea of smartphones, flip phones, and everything in between, figuring out what a "first phone" should have is key.

Here are some essential features to weigh:

1. Parental Controls

This is probably the most crucial feature when buying a child their first phone. Parental controls can help you limit internet access, restrict downloads from app stores, and keep an eye on how much time they’re spending on their phone.

Most phones, from Androids to iPhones, include built-in parental controls. You can manage things like screen time, app usage, and even set curfews for phone usage. Think of it as your safeguard while they navigate the digital world.

2. Durability

Kids are, well, kids. Phones are going to get dropped. They’ll end up in backpacks with books piled on top or left at soccer practice — it’s inevitable. That’s why a durable phone is so important. It’s worth looking for models that have enhanced ruggedness or are drop-proof. At the very least, invest in a sturdy case and screen protector.

3. Battery Life

No one wants to get that "low battery" text when your child needs to contact you. A phone with a long-lasting battery can be a lifesaver, especially if your child spends long stretches of time away from home.

4. Affordability

A first phone doesn’t need to be top-of-the-line. In fact, you’ll probably want to avoid handing over the latest $1,000 iPhone. There’s a good chance it could get lost, broken, or left behind. Considering your child might not need all the bells and whistles just yet, opt for something reasonably priced.

5. GPS Tracking

Here’s a feature that often gets overlooked but can give you peace of mind: GPS tracking. Many phones include built-in location tracking so you can know exactly where your child is. This can be particularly helpful for younger children who are just beginning to navigate independently. Apps like Find My iPhone can be super helpful to track their location in real-time.

Popular “First Phone” Options

Now that we’ve covered what features to prioritize, let’s look at some kid-friendly phones that have been tried and tested by parents and experts alike.

1. Gabb Wireless

Gabb Wireless is a popular option for younger kids. It’s a stripped-back smartphone that nixies social media, games, and internet browsing entirely. The phone only allows for basic functionality—calls, texts, and a few pre-approved apps like a calendar and calculator. It's essentially a “dumbed-down” smartphone, guided by the belief that kids don’t need a lot of the distractions that come with a full-fledged phone.

Why it’s great: It protects your child from the dangers of the internet while still allowing them the communication tools they need.

2. Nokia 3310

Remember the good old Nokia brick phone? Well, it’s still around, and thanks to its simplicity, it’s perfect for younger kids. The Nokia 3310 is basic but solid. It’s primarily for calls and texts, with no internet access, and its nearly indestructible build ensures it survives those inevitable drops.

Why it’s great: It's a low-tech, low-cost option that does the bare minimum—and sometimes that’s just what you need.

3. Apple iPhone SE

If you’re leaning toward a smartphone but don’t want to splurge, the iPhone SE is a great compromise. It’s pretty affordable when compared to newer iPhone models and still gives your child access to the essentials, especially if they need it for school. The bonus? You’ll have comprehensive parental controls at your fingertips, courtesy of Apple’s built-in Screen Time feature.

Why it’s great: You get solid access to apps and safety tools for a great price.

4. Google Pixel Family Link

Google Pixel phones, paired with the Google Family Link app, allow parents to fully control what their child does on their phone. From setting daily screen time limits to monitoring what apps they’re downloading, it’s a smartphone with parental functionality built-in.

Why it’s great: Offers more customizable parental controls for internet-savvy tweens and teens.

Ensuring Responsible Phone Use

While picking the right first phone is a big decision, what happens next is arguably more important: teaching your child how to use their phone responsibly.

Crafting a Contract

Yes, you heard that right—an actual phone contract. This doesn’t have to be a stiff, legal document, but something that lays out clear expectations for phone use. It can include things like:

- Screen time limits: How many hours a day?
- Social media rules: Will they be allowed, and if so, what are the limits?
- Texting etiquette: No phones at the dinner table or after a certain bedtime.

Creating this agreement sets boundaries from the get-go. It also opens the door to valuable conversations about digital safety and responsible use.

Discussing Online Safety

If your child is using a phone with internet access, having an open dialogue about online safety is a must. Topics to cover include:

- Cyberbullying: How to handle inappropriate behavior (and what constitutes it).
- Stranger danger: Making sure they know not to engage with strangers online.
- Privacy settings: Teach them how to protect their personal information.

Monitoring Screen Time

Even with a phone contract in place, it’s a good idea to monitor how much time your child spends on their device. Tools like Apple’s Screen Time or Google’s Family Link are lifesavers here. They let you see what apps they’re using, how long they’re using them, and even allow you to remotely lock the phone when necessary.

Conclusion: The First Step Toward Digital Responsibility

Giving your child their first phone is a big milestone—it’s not just about handing over a device; it’s about teaching them how to responsibly handle technology. By choosing the right phone, setting clear expectations, and maintaining open communication, you can help your child navigate the digital world safely and successfully.

Remember, it’s not just about the phone itself, but the habits you foster around it. Set the right foundation, and you’ll be setting your child up for a healthy relationship with technology for years to come.