When to Give a Child a Phone and Why Some Families Use Landlines ^{CEFR B1}

Many parents face the question of when to give a child a cellphone. Research and child development experts often point to middle school—around age 12 or 13—as a time when children begin to manage friendships and take part in after-school activities, which can create a practical need for a phone.

Some families choose a home landline instead of a smartphone. Landlines encourage spoken conversation and active listening because they do not offer social media, apps, or texting. Placing a shared phone outside a child’s bedroom can help set clear boundaries between school, social life, and family time.

Experts warn that excessive screen time is linked to anxiety, depression, poor sleep, low self-esteem and shorter attention spans. They caution against forbidding technology entirely and recommend open conversation, guided use and setting clear rules rather than strict bans.

Before giving a smartphone, parents should consider three simple questions: whether there is a practical need, whether the child is responsible, and whether they can self-regulate screen time.