Hello and welcome

Welcome to our Ask Robyn service, and thank you for getting in touch with your question.

It is completely understandable to feel unsure about when the right time is to give your child a smartphone. Many parents find themselves balancing concerns about online safety, screen time, social media, and growing independence, while also wanting to help their child feel included with their friends. There is rarely one perfect age that suits every child, so taking the time to think about what is right for your family is a positive step.

Every child is different

Firstly, it can help to remember that there is no single age at which every child is ready for a smartphone. Readiness is often more about maturity than age. Some children may be able to follow family rules, communicate openly, and take responsibility for a device, while others may need more time to develop these skills.

At the same time, it is natural for children to compare themselves with their friends. However, every family has different values, expectations, and circumstances. Although your child may feel left out, making a decision based on what best supports their wellbeing is likely to benefit them in the long term.

Thinking beyond the device

Secondly, a smartphone is more than just a way to stay in touch. It can provide access to social media, messaging apps, online games, and the wider internet. Before introducing a smartphone, it is worth thinking about whether your child understands how to stay safe online, how to respond if something upsets them, and whether they are comfortable talking to you about their online experiences.

Having regular conversations about the online world before they receive a smartphone can help build trust and encourage them to come to you if they ever have questions or concerns.

We would also encourage you to read this helpful ISPCC resource, 10 questions to ask your child before getting them a smartphone⁠. It offers practical questions that can help you and your child decide together whether they are ready for this next step.

What you can do

You might find it helpful to:

• Talk openly with your child about why they want a smartphone and listen to what it would mean to them.
• Agree clear family rules together about screen time, where the phone can be used, and what to do if they come across something that worries them.
• Consider starting with a basic phone or delaying access to certain apps until your child has shown they can use a device responsibly.
• Review the decision regularly, remembering that trust, communication, and guidance are just as important as parental controls.

Moving forward

Ultimately, deciding when your child is ready for a smartphone is a personal family decision. Taking time to consider your child’s maturity, your family’s values, and the supports you can put in place can help you feel more confident about whichever decision you make. Keeping the conversation open before and after your child gets a smartphone will also help them know they can turn to you if they need support.

If you would like to talk some more about this, our Support Line is open Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm on 01 5224300. Or you can email [email protected].

Thank you again for contacting our Ask Robyn service. We wish you and your family all the very best as you make the decision that feels right for you.

Robyn