Chronicle poll results: Children and cellphones
We asked our readers at what age a child should get their first cellphone. Here's what they said.
Last week, the Chronicle asked its readers in an electronic poll the following question: “At what age do you think a child should get their first cellphone?” Of the 196 people who responded, 25% said 16-18; 41% said 13-15; 28% said 10-12; 1% said under 10; and 5% said “other.” Comments were submitted by 43 people. A few follow.
Kids should not be exposed to cellphones and social media until at least high school.
When they get accepted to medical school.
Ten to 12, if they have stopped losing outerwear.
Sounds like a great “Sweet 16” gift to me! Young kids don’t need a cellphone to distract themselves from real communication and playing. I think it’s dangerous to give them cellphones too young. I know how easily I become distracted by my cellphone!
Kids under 16 should start with a dumb phone. The real problem is smartphones and social media, not phones in and of themselves.
Mobile phones have become a necessity. But no child under 16 needs one. It would appear that most under 16 use them for texting, social media, etc., and not for emergencies. It’s a waste of money for the family, a total distraction for the child and the source of many anti-social behaviors. We can see the negative impact on our children every day.
I’m a grandma, so I fought this — in my mind — for years, but now I see the helpfulness: You’re available to your kids in an emergency; kids can communicate with each other; you can see where your older kids are when they go out, etc. But as a parent, I would be way stricter than most parents. No phones at the dinner table, for example. No sitting around glued to the phones like my grandchildren are, teenagers all. What are they even doing? It’s scary to ask. My daughter claims she stays up on it and has rules. Hmmmm…I don’t see it.
Age 16 seems important because the teenager will then be driving. It would be beneficial for
the young driver to be able to contact his/her parents or the police, if necessary.
It depends on the child’s needs and level of responsibility.
Bar/bat mitzvah or confirmation gift. PJC
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