Last week, we asked you what age you think is appropriate for kids to own their first smartphone. The question was the result of a recent study that found an association between early smartphone ownership and negative health effects in kids. According to the study, the earlier a kid owns a smartphone, the greater the risk they have of adverse effects on their sleep, emotional state, and health.
We had several options, ranging from ages 5-7 to age 14 and older. Somewhat surprisingly, of the hundreds of responses we received, most were from older ages. In fact, ages 14 and up was the most popular response with 53% of the votes, followed by ages 11-13 with 36% of the votes, ages 8-10 with 10% of the votes, and ages 5-7 with the remaining votes.
What you had to say
A few of the responses indicated that middle school was an appropriate age to give a kid their first smartphone. This would fall somewhere in the 10 to 14 age range, and is considered, to many, an important time for kids, socially. With the advent of after-school programs, social activities, and a growing need for independence as they navigate their pre-teen years, having an easier way to contact your child and keep track of their whereabouts may become a necessity for some parents.
I think 13/14 is a good age for kids knowing how to act online and 16 for all other casesDecember 5, 2025
However, some were not as open to smartphone use for younger children, especially as the cost of owning one continues to go up and phones become more expensive. More than a few readers responded by saying they’ll leave it up to when their child can afford to pay for their own phone, with one suggesting getting them a dumb phone until then, which would be a more economical option for many while shielding their kids from social media.
One response was critical of those who seem to rely too much on phones and tablets, suggesting that there needs to be a balance when providing tech to younger kids. This is where apps and features like Family Link can come in handy to limit use, although it may not be enough for some who prefer a more active parenting style.
They just shouldn’t use them and/or tablets 24/7. Babysitting your kids with YouTube, mobile games, TikTok, etc. is terrible. Some parents even let their kids sit on tablets the whole time they’re out to eat. It’s ridiculous.December 3, 2025
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