With a rise of both technology and danger in our society, children today are getting devices earlier and earlier. Some argue that phones are a necessity in the modern age, while others believe that children having access to phones at too early of an age could be harmful in the short and long term.
“I got my first phone when I was nine years old. I think that kids should be getting their first phone at six/seven years old, because that’s the only number I can think of at the moment,” said Sr. Chris Mendoza. Though he admits that his answer wasn’t very serious, he does believe that devices can serve as a tool for younger people to stay safe and connected, particularly when parents aren’t around. For many families, being able to reach their children at any given moment gives peace of mind.
On the other side of the table, some students think that parents shouldn’t provide a phone for their children until they are a little bit older. Senior Carli Oudemolen-Valero shared her own experience: “I personally think children should get cellphones in sixth grade and not earlier because what does a child need a phone for in elementary school?” she said. Oudemolen-Valero elaborated that in middle school, kids tend to start joining activities that take place after school and they overall start to become more independent, which makes having a phone more practical. She also talked about the downsides of early phone use. “I got one in elementary school, which was way too early because I got exposed to things online that no child should have,” she added.
Some parents feel that the right age for a first phone is less dependent on the school grade, and more so on the situation of the family. Parent Cody Gutknecht explains, “I think kids should have a cell phone at any appropriate age that benefits their family as well as themselves, which lets their parents know where they are and gives direct contact with one another, regardless of the child’s age. If I had to pinpoint an age, I’d say about 10 years old.” His perspective emphasizes practicality. Giving kids a phone when it’s used as a tool for communication and keeping the youth safe, rather than following a strict age rule.
While there isn’t a perfect age for a first phone, the decision depends on the maturity, lifestyle, and family values from child to child. Many see phones as a tool for safety and independence, while other people perceive them as a distraction from their childhood. As technology is constantly evolving and society is progressing, the true challenge might not be when kids get their first cellphone, but instead how to responsibly use it.
