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What should you do when your kid asks for a smartphone, but you don’t want to give them access to things like the internet and social media? Luckily for parents, there are plenty of kid-friendly phone options you could consider. From internet restrictions to GPS tracking, any of the devices in this article can provide you with peace of mind.
Gabb Wireless
Gabb wireless offers a selection of smartphones for children with built-in safety features. These devices are not connected to the internet or social media, and you don’t even need to buy into a contract. The phone comes with 14 pre-downloaded apps for listening to music, texting, calling, and taking photos. It also comes with a GPS tracking feature.
Pinwheel Smartphones
Pinwheel smartphones are another great option because there are plenty of interactive features for parents. The internet and app stores aren’t on this device. Children must select apps from a preapproved list curated by their parent or guardian.
This device also gives you the ability to monitor its message and call history from your own phone. You can even block specific apps from being used at certain times throughout the day. As a parent, you can also send task reminders to your kid’s phone from your device and track their location through GPS.
VTech KidiBuzz
The VTech KidiBuzz smartphone is suitable for younger children below the age of 10. Again, no internet connection is available, and messages can only be sent through Wi-Fi to other KidiBuzz phones or iPhone or Android devices.
You should consider this kid-friendly phone option because there are over 40 kid-friendly websites and apps approved by the creators to enhance learning and safety. Feel confident with your child using this device by setting time limits on apps, approving contact lists, messages, and photos, and blocking websites you don’t want your kid to access.
iPhone SE
When is the right time to give your child a phone? This can be a difficult decision. The above three devices are great for when your child might not be able to handle the responsibility of a smartphone. However, as your child enters their teen years and high school, they might be looking for a device that gives them more independence.
The iPhone SE is an affordable iPhone model that still allows for certain parental controls. For example, you can monitor your kid’s screen time, locate them using Find My Friends, or download a parental control app, such as Bark. Remember, don’t take this leap into a real smartphone until you believe your child is ready—stick with the more kid-friendly options before graduating to Apple or Samsung devices.
It shouldn’t come as a surprise when your child asks for a phone. It might be stressful thinking of your kid handling their own device, but this is an excellent opportunity to teach them responsibility and internet safety. Which one of these kid-friendly phones do you think you’ll try?
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