Giving my kid a phone at 10, thoughts?

C

Jun 221 min read

His fifth grade class is going on a field trip and I'm thinking about getting him a basic phone just for safety/communication. Not a smartphone, just something to call or text from. Wife thinks he's too young. The other parents at school seem split. I want him to have some independence but also know he can reach me. What age did everyone else do this and what did you get them? Looking for real feedback not the anxiety spiral stuff.

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Comments(3)

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BBradRegularJun 22

I just went through this decision with my 5th grader actually. We got him a basic flip phone for exactly what you're describing - field trips and emergencies - and that worked great. The key was being super clear about what it's for so he doesn't think it's a gateway to TikTok.

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MMikeRegularJun 23

Just know once you hand over a phone, even a basic one, you're opening a door you can't completely close. Not saying don't do it, just be ready for the 'but everyone else has...' conversations that come next.

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LLuke M.RegularJun 24

Honestly at 10 for a field trip I think a basic phone is totally reasonable. You're not getting him an iPhone, you're getting him a safety tool. That's parenting.

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