Here’s another question: What is an appropriate age for a child to get a cell phone, and is it different for girls and boys?
That’s an interesting question. I’m not sure there is one specific “right age” as much as there is a need for the right education about how to use the device.
Some children need a phone primarily for communication — to contact parents about rides, activities, or schedules. For others, the phone becomes a main way of communicating with friends. The important question is understanding the purpose of the device.
We also need to think about boundaries. Does the phone have a bedtime? I say that somewhat playfully, but it’s important. I often joke with my son that his phone needs to go to bed. In our home, the general rule is that phones sleep outside the bedroom because devices can create distractions at night through messages or notifications.
Rather than focusing only on age, parents should ask: What is the purpose of the phone, and is this the best way to meet that need? Once the purpose is clear, parents can establish proper education and guidelines for how the device will be used.
These conversations should happen repeatedly, not just once. Ongoing discussions help children understand healthy technology use. I’ve had many open conversations with my own children about device usage and its impact on mental health and well-being.
Research shows that devices can influence mood, perspective, and even how we interpret reality. Algorithms are designed to keep users engaged by continuously feeding content based on interests, which can quickly become overwhelming.
Because of this, it’s important to establish boundaries, maintain open communication, and help children understand what’s happening when they use these devices. I don’t want my children navigating technology alone. Leaving kids to manage devices without guidance can be risky, so parents need to stay involved and connected.
