Orlando, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — Smartphones are on the top of many kids’, preteens’, and teens’ Christmas lists. But are they ready to have one or will it just lead to more screen time and less family time? New studies show 42 percent of kids spend 30 hours on their smart phones every week. And 42 percent of parents allow their kids to spend three or more hours a day scrolling and chatting. Child phone
At some point, it’s the shiny tech toy that tops every kid’s Christmas list, but how do you know if your child is ready for a cell phone?
“There’s really no one age that this is the right time. It really depends a lot on your kids’ needs and activities and their social and moral and cognitive development and sense of responsibility,” said Kathleen McHugh, PhD, Psychologist.
Studies show the typical age for a first phone is 11 to 14. But before they get a phone, parents need to talk.
“Parents definitely need to be on the same page with each other prior to having any discussions with their children about the phone,” explained McHugh.
While the devices can help kids connect with others, including their parents, there are negatives to consider. Teens between ages 13 to 18 have the highest rate of smartphone addiction with half feeling they are addicted to their phones! That’s why expectations need to be clearly set.
“How many hours are you going to be on this phone? What are the times that you’re not going to be on the phone? Like dinner times, family activities and very important to be off the phone at least 30 minutes before bedtime and have the phone in a place that’s not the child’s bedroom,” said McHugh.
Consider coming up with a phone contract that outlines rules for using the device and consequences for breaking the rules. Tools like Bark and Screen Time allow you to monitor and limit time on your child’s phone.
There is a movement called not until eighth grade where parents are trying to encourage other parents not to give kids a phone until eighth grade. And if you’re not ready for a smartphone, some experts suggest a Gabb phone. It allows your child to call and text and has basic features like a camera, calendar, and GPS. But there’s no internet, group texts, games, or social media on these devices.
Contributors to this news report include: Julie Marks, Producer; Bob Walko
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Sources:
https://www.mmguardian.com/blog/teenage-cell-phone-use
https://www.urbanrecovery.com/blog/addiction-to-cell-phone-statistics
