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Before considering giving your child a smartphone, carefully determine its main use. Is the primary reason of giving them the phone the need to call them while you are at work? Is it a nagging request of the child so he can communicate more often with his classmates and friends? Will it be used as a supplement for learning?
We have provided 7 factors you can think over before giving your child his first smartphone.
1. Does Age Matter?
According to the study conducted by NTT Docomo in 2014, children aged 10 and 12 were the most common age groups to receive their first mobile phones. In addition, 50% of those surveyed said that they use their mobile phones for Internet access. Other research indicates that age is not a factor for the decision, but if you would like to consider the average age of smartphone users among children, then it is between the ages of 10 and 12. It was generalized that children in this age group can understand their responsibilities, and consequences of their adverse actions. In an article published by Mirror, Microsoft founder Bill Gates did not give his children any mobile phone until they were 14 years of age.
2. Setting Of Expectations
In the current world of reality vs. expectation, you and your child might have a different understanding of the independent use of a smartphone. If your child will agree to sign a contract, then it is a clear awareness of his responsibilities and the terms of an agreement. Below are samples of terms that may be included in the contract:
3. Emotional Intelligence Or Maturity
Emotional maturity is not the same for every child. There may be children who are more mature than their age and can handle responsibilities and practice self-control. If the child will use tantrums just to get what he wants or if the gadget will be used as a tantrum pacifier, then reconsider the provision of the phone.
4. Social Skills Indicator
Is your child outgoing and does not have a difficult time interacting with other people? Or is he more of a loner or an introvert? The social personality of your child is a factor when deciding if he is ready for his first smartphone. If the smartphone will be more of a companion rather than an object, consider discussing the matter with him. Direct communication and interaction with other humans still outweigh any other forms of communication technology.