Walk into any home, bus, or school yard today and you will see it: children holding phones, scrolling, laughing, watching videos, chatting with friends. Phones are no longer a luxury for adults. They are part of everyday life. This brings a big question many parents and caregivers quietly struggle with: what age should children be given phones, or allowed on social media?
There is no single answer that fits every child. Some children are more responsible early on, while others need more time. Still, age matters, and so does guidance.
Many experts agree that young children do not need smartphones. For children under 10, a phone is often more of a toy than a tool. At this age, kids are still learning basic social skills, self-control, and how to manage emotions. Giving them a smartphone too early can expose them to content they are not ready to understand. Videos, ads, and messages can easily confuse or scare them.
Between ages 10 and 12, some parents choose to introduce a basic phone, mainly for safety. This could be a phone that allows calls and texts only, not full access to the internet or social media. At this stage, the phone is less about entertainment and more about staying in touch. For example, a child can call a parent after school or during an emergency. This helps build trust while keeping boundaries clear.
Social media is a bigger issue. Most platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat officially require users to be at least 13 years old. This age limit exists for a reason. Social media is not just about posting photos. It comes with pressure, comparison, strangers, and sometimes bullying. Children below 13 often lack the emotional strength to handle negative comments, fake news, or online drama.
Even after 13, access to social media should not mean total freedom. A teenager may be old enough by age, but still needs guidance. Parents and guardians should talk openly about what social media is, how it works, and its risks. It is important for children to know that not everything online is real, kind, or safe.
One major concern with early phone and social media use is mental health. Studies from different countries show that too much screen time can affect sleep, concentration, and self-esteem. When children spend hours comparing their lives to filtered images online, they may feel they are not good enough. This can lead to stress, anxiety, or sadness, even if they cannot explain why.
Another issue is safety. The internet connects people, but not everyone online has good intentions. Children can be exposed to scams, harmful challenges, or strangers pretending to be friends. Without proper supervision, a phone can open doors that should stay closed.
This does not mean phones and social media are completely bad. When used well, they can help children learn, communicate, and express creativity. Teenagers can research schoolwork, stay connected with family, and even learn new skills online. The key is balance and supervision.
So, what should parents focus on instead of just age? Maturity. Ask simple questions. Can the child follow rules? Do they talk openly about problems? Do they understand consequences? A mature child is more likely to use a phone responsibly than an older child who is careless.
Rules also matter. Setting limits on screen time, checking privacy settings, and agreeing on what apps are allowed can make a big difference. Phones should not replace family time, sleep, or schoolwork. Keeping phones out of bedrooms at night is one small rule that can protect a child’s sleep and mental health.
Most importantly, children should feel safe talking to adults about what they see online. If a child is afraid of being punished, they may hide problems instead of asking for help. Open conversations work better than strict control.
Giving a child a phone or access to social media should not be about pressure from friends or trends. It should be a thoughtful decision based on the child’s needs, maturity, and environment. In a fast digital world, guidance is just as important as technology.
Brenna AKARABO
RADIOTV10
