August 15, 2024
A kid's first mobile phone helps mark their transition into a new phase, one that offers more autonomy but also comes with significant parental considerations, including:
What is the appropriate age for a kid to have a mobile phone?
What device features, parental controls and rules make the most sense?
How should you manage the data needed to power the device?
If you're on the path to purchase, we've got you covered with everything you need to know about buying your kid's first mobile phone.
What Age Should Kids Get a Mobile Phone?
Every child is different, so there's no one-age-fits-all for their first mobile phone. Some kids take responsibility for the things they own from an early age, while others are more forgetful. The timing also may depend on how they will use the device: Some may want a phone to keep in touch with family or friends, while others might rather use it to play games.
According to research from Stanford Medicine, just over three in four of kids had a mobile phone by age 12.
Which Device Makes Sense for Your Kid?
Device size, price and specs are also prime considerations. Cox mobile phone offerings include everything from a 4.7" iPhone SE to a 6.5" iPhone 15 Pro to a 6.7" Samsung Galaxy S24+ — with a wide range of features available, depending on the device.
Let your kid try out different devices and see which one seems easiest for them to use and to manage (i.e. not lose), factoring in how much you think is appropriate to spend on the phone. You can also consider purchasing a mobile protection plan, in case it's lost, stolen or damaged, for additional peace of mind.
What Data Plan Fits Your Needs?
How to pay for data is another decision point: Do you prefer to pay as you go or pay the same amount every month?
Cox Mobile offers data plans for both scenarios. Choosing Pay as You Gig means you get more control over your kid's device usage — you decide how much data to purchase, and you're not paying for unused data.
Opting for the Gig Unlimited plan, meanwhile, provides the peace of mind that your child can always access the apps and services they need.
What Parental Controls Do You Need?
Parental controls are another key consideration.
These controls may include restrictions on the type of websites kids can access, the ability to download applications and the amount of screen time they can have per day.
While both Apple and Android devices include parental controls, Android phones typically offer more robust options. The Apple App Store, meanwhile, is known for a more rigorous app screening processes.
What Are Your Rules for Using the Phone?
Before your kid gets their first phone, you might want to discuss any rules for using it, including:
When and where your child is allowed to use their phone
How many hours a day they can use the phone
Permission (or not) for social media
Where the phone is charged/stored at bedtime
What Apps Should Kids Have on Their Mobile Phones?
With phones selected and rules set, parents will likely want to weigh in on appropriate apps. Common choices include secure messaging apps and locator apps that help parents find and connect with kids as needed.
Games and educational apps are also popular, but given the wide variety available, it's up to parents to vet apps to know which ones to trust and which might not be appropriate for your child.
To boost phone safety, you may want to require parental approval for any free download or paid app purchase. This gives you a chance to review app features, see what permissions are required and decide if the app is safe.
Starting Off Right with Your Kids' First Mobile Phone
Getting a kid their first mobile phone is a big moment for children and parents alike. As a result, it's worth taking the time to shop for a device that will keep the kids happy and give parents peace of mind.
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