Majority of Kids Granted Mobile Phone Access by Age Seven - Majority of Kids Given Mobile Phone Access by Age Seven
In a recent study published by the digital association Bitkom in Berlin, the recommended or typical ages for children to start using digital devices and social media in Germany have been outlined.
- Smartphone: Most children use a smartphone by age 7, and by age 9 they often own their own smartphone.
- Tablet: Children generally start using tablets by age 8.
- Smartwatch: Most children own a smartwatch by age 11, usually purchased by parents to track their children's whereabouts, not because children ask for them.
When it comes to social media, the study reveals that:
- Ages 6 to 9: 77% of parents forbid their children from having their own social media account; some allow shared accounts without identifiable details.
- Ages 10 to 12: Parents mainly allow shared use, with about 37% permitting their children to create their own social media profile.
- Age 13 onwards: The majority of parents allow full social media access, with 80% permitting their children to have their own profile; most restrictions are lifted by age 16, with 83% of 16- to 18-year-olds having their own identifiable profile with parental consent.
Educators and safety experts recommend that children should only get smartphones when they are about 12 to 13 years old and understand the internet's dangers, although many children receive them earlier. Bitkom emphasizes the role of parental guidance and digital education to ensure appropriate and safe usage of these devices.
The survey also indicates that 77% of parents do not allow 6 to 9-year-old children to have their own social media user account or shared use. However, it's important to note that the survey does not provide information about the use of smartphones, PCs, laptops, tablets, or smartwatches for children aged 10 to 18.
The Bitkom survey continues to provide valuable insights into the trends in the introduction of digital devices and social media for children in Germany. Parents and educators are encouraged to consider these recommendations to ensure the safe and appropriate use of technology by young users.
- Community Policy: In line with the study, a community policy could emphasize the importance of parental guidance and digital education for children's safe and appropriate use of digital devices and social media, as recommended by safety experts.
- Lifestyle: The study highlights the shift in lifestyle for children, with most owning smartphones by age 7 and tablets by age 8, which raises questions about the impact of technology on their formative years.
- Vocational Training: Recognizing the significance of technology in today's world, vocational training programs could focus on teaching young adults how to responsibly use digital devices and navigate social media, preparing them for future careers in fields such as home-and-garden technology, gadgets, and smartphones.
