Buying a phone for your child is a big deal. Aside from the direct cost of the device, phones expose your child to a vast ocean of information. Even phone manufacturers are aware of the importance of responsible smartphone use for kids, many of them introducing parental controls. Used correctly, phones can improve your child’s communication skills and greatly enrich their lives through educational and interactive tools. Once you’ve decided to get your child a phone, consider these tips to ensure that you do not regret your decision:
The right age
Many sources claim that ages 10 to 12 is a good time to consider buying a phone for your child. While you may use this as a guideline, you should consider the maturity level of your child. If your child is responsible, able to follow rules and considerate towards others, he or she may be ready for a phone.
If you are away from your child a lot, you could also consider getting a simple phone for your child who is aged under 10. This allows you to keep track of your child’s whereabouts.
Setting boundaries
Every parent and every child is different. This makes the topic of boundaries an important one. Set a list of rules for your child, rules like no phone usage after 9pm, apps that are not appropriate, staying safe online and more. Encourage your children to speak with you on things he or she may be unsure about.
Monitoring their activities
Most devices offer parental controls, allowing you to restrict access to harmful content, monitor screen time and interactions.
For a parental control guide on
iPhones, visit: https://support.apple.com/en-my/HT201304
Samsung Galaxy phones, visit: https://www.samsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS00086102/
Keeping your kids safe
A phone is an excellent tool to keep track of your children’s movements. If this is especially important to you, educate your child on the importance of keeping you updated on his or her whereabouts. This could be done through simple text updates, location sharing or even a call.
Handy education
Having a smartphone opens up a world of learning possibilities with some of the best learning apps like YouTube Kids, Khan Academy and ABCmouse. To make the most of these apps, make sure that your kids spend a fair amount of time on education apps before moving on to games and entertainment.
Also, make it a point to teach your children about the difference between using the internet as a source of information, versus copying and pasting information as answers.
Better together
Phones can be isolating when not used in a healthy manner. You wouldn’t want your child to be constantly glued to the screen without acknowledging the existence of friends and family. To avoid this, factor in group activities like watching videos together, sharing a playlist, delegating chores and even playing team games. Not only will this break the isolating nature of smartphones, it could also bring your family closer.
The right device
As this is likely going to be the first device your child will be handling, you wouldn’t want to be investing thousands on a brand-new flagship device. This doesn’t mean getting a sluggish older model from the early 2000s, with CompAsia, you can get a high quality second-hand flagship for a lot less. Remember to also invest in a good screen protector and phone case as kids tend to be more careless with things.
Final notes
Introducing your child to the wonderful world of smartphones can be beneficial when done safely and correctly. Now that you know what precautions to take, check out what amazing deals are available on CompAsia.sg
Devices on CompAsia.sg are 32-step quality checked and come with a warranty that can be extended up to 24 months. Choose from a variety of top brands such as Apple, Samsung, Google, Xiaomi, Oppo and more. As a final tip, browse the options with your child, he or she will surely appreciate it.
