How do I know if my child is ready for a smartphone? If you have a child over the age of 7, it’s likely they have asked you for a smartphone already. When is the right time to say, “yes,” to a smartphone for your child?

We must talk to our children about difficult things before they are ready for a  smartphone. These include sex, pornography, sexting, cyber-bullying, suicide, and body image. If you have educated your child about these issues, here are some key questions you may want to consider before you give your child a smartphone.

Does my child respect and obey rules?
If your child is struggling with adhering to rules at home and/or school, then the child is not ready for the responsibility of a smartphone. If you cannot trust the child to do what is right, then delay this important decision.

How are my child's social skills?
Are they able to have a conversation with an adult, and look people in the eye when talking to someone? Is the child observant in social situations or not so much? If the latter is the case, the lack of social skills will only be amplified with a smartphone. They are more likely to fumble on group texts or social media, opening up a minefield of social gaffes. Focus on coaching your child on key social skills before introducing the smartphone.

Is my child responsible with their belongings?
Do they lose personal items easily? Is there a good chance your child will leave their phone at the park or on the bus? What will be the consequence of a lost or damaged expensive smartphone?

Does my child struggle with screen limits?
Are you constantly nagging your child to shut down the video games or get off the ipad? If screen time is already a struggle, then adding a smartphone to the mix is like pouring gasoline on a fire. So many parents regret granting the smartphone wish because screen time becomes a constant battle between the parent and child.

Does my child know how to use a smartphone responsibly?
Before a child is permitted to have a smartphone, it is crucial for parents to instruct the child on how to use the smartphone safely, appropriately, and moderately. This goes well beyond a one-time discussion with your child where you rattle off a bunch of rules listed in a smartphone contract. If done properly, the education process should take multiple conversations over weeks, months, and possibly years. Instruction, monitoring, and modeling proper smartphone behavior must continue once the child receives a smartphone.