Over half of American children own a smartphone by the age of 11. If you decide it's time for your child to join the club, they'll likely be thrilled. But, as a parent, you might feel nervous. For example, you may worry that they'll drop their phone and need a screen repair before long. Ease your worries by learning more about how to prepare your child to be a responsible digital citizen.

Guidelines for Giving a Child Their First Phone

1. Create a Contract

American children between the ages of 8 and 12 spend up to 5 hours a day on their phones. If this seems excessive, and you don't want your child’s phone to distract them from family time, create a contract that sets out basic rules you and your child agree to. For example, you might create phone-free zones like the dinner table or homework area. You might also create limits based on time; there might be a point in the evening when your child must put away their phone, or maybe they’re allowed to use their devices for 2–3 hours a day max. It’s also a good idea to create penalties for breaking the rules. For example, maybe you’ll take your child’s phone away for a day if they fail to put it away each night at the designated time.

2. Teach Them Responsibility

If your child isn’t careful, they might end up losing or damaging their smartphone. Consequently, they may need a new device or a screen repair before too long. To avoid this, brainstorm potential dangers and how they can be avoided. For example, to avoid damaging the phone, they might keep it in a protective case at all times. To avoid losing it, they might keep it in one pocket of their backpack and never leave it unattended when away from home.

To teach your child financial responsibility, have them pay part of the monthly phone bill with their allowance.

3. Review Apps & Privacy Settings

In addition to texting and phone calls, kids will use their phones to connect with friends on social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. To ensure your child’s safety, make sure they’re aware of their privacy settings on each platform, so they aren’t putting themselves at risk by sharing their personal information with strangers. In general, they should avoid sharing sensitive information like their phone number or address with anyone outside their friends and family. Sit down together and review the settings in each app.

Even if your child is careful, cell phone damage can happen. When you need a repair, rely on A+ Cell Phone Repair in Tampa, FL. This business provides screen repairs and battery replacements for phones from Apple®, Samsung®, LG®, Android®, and more. They also sell quality new and used products, and you can sell or trade-in your current phone to pay for the new phone. This one-stop-shop also offers phone accessories and prepaid plans. Call (813) 908-2222 to schedule a repair, or visit them online for a complete list of services.