In the new generation of technology, when do you introduce it to your children?
We asked parents and guardians when they thought the best age was to gift their child with a smartphone device. That is, a phone that is connected to the internet. (This isn't the same thing as allowing your child to have a social media account. Although, it’s worth noting the number of youtube, instagram and tiktok channels that feature young creators is remarkable.)
So, what is the magical number? We found the average age was 11 years old, on average. Or the Sixth Grade.
This is the age where they are almost getting ready for high school, but may be commuting to school on their own.
Typically, this is the 6th grade for most kids. Some parents in our study choose to give their kids a smartphone at age 8 or 9, while other parents waited until 14, sometimes 15 years old to give them their first device.
Getting to know the internet, allowing your child access, and giving them independency to interact and navigate the world wide web is inevitable. So proponents of early independent device usage claim it's more optimal if the child is more experienced in dealing with the electronics and capabilities versus the alternative of not being exposed to it at all.
However, those not in favor of giving a smartphone to a 10 year old yet, often said they want them to experience a disconnected childhood. One rooted in the "real" world. “And a smartphone is different than a flip-phone or a beeper” one parent said.
Should we all just disconnect for good? Or maybe we should all implant our brains with microchips, giving us the ability to communicate telepathically with the entire universe all at once.
Comment below and let your voice be heard!
Comments