August 12, 2024, 6:14 am | Read time: 8 minutes
Smartphones are ubiquitous. Nowadays, it’s almost impossible to do without them. More and more children also own a phone. Parents often wonder which models are most worthwhile and what to consider when buying one.
Parents are increasingly faced with the question of which phone is best suited for their children and what they need to pay attention to. TECHBOOK has addressed this question and explains the purchasing criteria, the appropriate age for children to own a phone, and which features are essential.
Overview
What to Consider When Buying
Nowadays, there seems to be an endless variety of smartphone types. The market offers numerous entry-level and high-end devices. More and more children are using and owning a phone. But what should you consider when buying your child their first smartphone?
It’s generally advisable to choose a functional older second device at home to serve as your child’s first smartphone. Phones for children need to be robust and durable, and losing them shouldn’t be too severe. Ideally, the phone should withstand bumps and drops. Size is also important: children have smaller hands, so devices with a display diagonal of 6.5 inches or more are simply too large. The main goal is for children to learn handling, typing, scrolling, etc., easily and confidently. Additionally, the operation should be simple. Many and complex functions can make learning difficult.
Internet access is also crucial. Most children are not familiar with handling social media. Therefore, it would be wise to introduce your child to media literacy as simply as possible. You should check in advance whether the device offers internet access and parental controls or various security settings.
Costs should not be overlooked either. Children generally have no overview or understanding of costs. Prepaid plans prevent unexpectedly high expenses. However, contracts can offer cheaper rates for data and calls.
At What Age Should Children Own a Phone?
The question of when to give a child a phone depends on many different factors. Some children develop a sense of responsibility earlier, some later. Either way, there is no blanket answer. In Germany, a person is considered a child until the age of 14. Therefore, it’s difficult to compare an 8-year-old with a 13-year-old.
There are countless opinions on the appropriate age for a child to own a phone. According to a French study led by neurologist Servane Mouton and Amine Benyamina, head of the Department of Psychiatry and Addiction at Paul-Brousse Hospital, children under 11 should not own a phone. Children between 11 and 13 may use one, but without internet access. Only from age 13 is a smartphone with internet access considered appropriate.
On the website of the portal “Ins Netz gehen” by the Federal Center for Health Education, it states: “It is recommended to give children their own smartphone with restricted internet access no earlier than age 9, preferably no earlier than age 12. At this age, they are usually mature enough to gradually gain independent experience with the internet and apps.”
The Pros and Cons
There are many pros and cons associated with children under 14 owning a phone. Let’s start with the advantages. Communication between parents and children is very important. If the child has a phone, parents, siblings, friends, etc., can always stay in touch. This is especially important if the child needs to be picked up or in case of an emergency. With tracking features, parents can monitor their child and keep an eye on them. Additionally, using the phone can enhance learning abilities. Nowadays, there are numerous useful and safe learning apps. In a highly technological world, children should have certain digital skills. Early use can indeed be beneficial here.
However, there are also some disadvantages. For example, there can be excessive phone use. Smartphones can easily distract children, especially with games and social media, which can negatively impact their academic performance and social interactions. There’s also the risk that children spend more time online than in personal interactions, leading to social isolation. The issue of cyberbullying should not be overlooked either.
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Recommended Phones for Children
Now let’s look at devices that are particularly recommended for children. Care was taken to ensure they are easy to use, provide important features for parents, and do not overwhelm the child. It doesn’t have to be the latest iPhone or Android smartphone. Often, older but sturdy devices are sufficient.
Samsung Galaxy A35
The Samsung Galaxy A35 is considered a mid-range phone from the South Korean company. It is a robust, elegant device that is more than sufficient for everyday use. The battery lasts a long time, and thanks to the Exynos 1280 processor, all apps and games run smoothly. Additionally, the Samsung Knox security platform protects personal data and applications. It is especially suitable for children ready to explore social media and similar applications.
Nokia 6310
Most smartphones, whether low-budget or flagship, offer numerous features. This can be overwhelming for children at first. Unlike modern smartphones, the Nokia 6310 focuses on the basic functions of a mobile phone. It allows calls, sending SMS messages, and offers long battery life, making it easy for children to use. The phone is also very robust. Also cool: the popular game “Snake” is pre-installed on the Nokia phone.
Nokia G22 EinfachFon Kids
Also from Nokia is the G22 EinfachFon Kids. Unlike the 6310 model, this is a smartphone with a touchscreen and even more features. The special thing here is the interface, which is very intuitive and simple. Frequently used apps like WhatsApp, weather apps, etc., can be installed. Additionally, children have internet access, which parents must first unlock. The kids can then surf in a protected internet area. Thanks to the 50 MP camera, children can also take their first photos.
Emporia TouchSmart 2
There are still flip phones on the market. The Emporia model is one of these devices. The phone is equipped with a voice assistant, LED flashlight, alarm clock with snooze function, radio, calendar, etc. There are also pre-installed apps, including WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram. An 8 MP camera is also integrated, and Android serves as the operating system. This device is a combination of a touchscreen and a physical keyboard.
Fairphone 5
It is well known that smartphone manufacturing is not particularly environmentally friendly. Some brands have therefore decided to produce their devices as fairly and environmentally friendly as possible–the Fairphone is made from over 70 percent fair and recycled materials. Admittedly, this is not an entry-level phone, but children aged 13 and up with sufficient competence can operate this smartphone. An important feature is that software updates and security support are guaranteed until 2031. If you want a fairly traded device with strong technical features, you should choose a Fairphone.
Google Pixel 8a
Google has also been producing very good and functional smartphones for years. The Pixel series has been popular with young and old for many years. Of course, this is not a classic children’s phone, but the pure Android operating system is a big plus. Many other smartphone brands have their own interface, often filled with bloatware. This can make entry difficult. Pure Android, on the other hand, is quick to learn and very clear. Additionally, Google Pixels offer many protection features (such as “Digital Wellbeing”) that parents can set up in advance. The integration of Google services is also an advantage. Many schools and educational institutions use Google Classroom and other Google services for teaching. In terms of price and functionality, the Google Pixel 8a is recommended, but previous models are just as good.
Gabb Phone 4 Pro
The Gabb Phone 4 Pro was specifically designed for children and teenagers, allowing for safe and controlled use. Parents have full control over the available apps and features, enabling them to monitor their child’s digital environment. Social media and web browsers are deliberately omitted to reduce the risk of inappropriate content. Third-party apps can only be downloaded to your teenager’s phone if you activate them. With parent-activated apps, children can communicate, listen to music, and navigate in a safe environment. The hardware, such as the 50-megapixel camera and 6.5-inch display, ensures an appealing user experience.
So Many Children Already Own a Phone
More and more children have a phone or smartphone. According to the market media study “Kinder-Medien-Monitor 2023,” 51 percent of surveyed children aged 6 to 13 own a smartphone, almost 20 percent have a tablet, and around 17 percent own a laptop or PC.
Daily usage is also quite significant. The “JIM Study 2023” by the Media Education Research Association Southwest found that the average daily screen time on a smartphone for children aged 12 to 13 is 121 minutes. The most frequently used apps in this age group are WhatsApp, TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, and Instagram.