How to choose your child's first phone

Does your child just need to connect with you and a few people?

A basic connected device like the GizmoWatch generally limits calls and contacts but still enables connection. With the GizmoWatch you can track your child’s watch and set up 10 contacts for calls and texts. And as an added bonus, the fitness tracker helps kids stay active. 

Is your kid ready for more phone freedom?

As your child ages and is ready for more phone responsibilities, you can focus on an introductory phone that doesn’t cost too much and limits usage. The KAZUNA eTalk basic phone is one option. For less than $4 a month (for 24 months; 0% APR.  Retail price $79.99), your child can get the essentials — phone calls and text messages — without the unnecessary bells and whistles.  

Does your child have a need or use for a smartphone?

There are plenty of smartphones to choose from, but how do you decide? Consider price, storage and size. For $10/month (for 24 months; 0% APR.  Retail price $240.00), you can get the Motorola moto g7 power, which offers 3 GB of built-in memory and a cinematic HD display, among other things. Or maybe you want a device that offers a bit more. The Samsung Galaxy A50 has a generous screen, an advanced multi-lens camera and 64 GB of memory. 

Even with a smartphone, controlling phone time may still be a concern. The Just Kids plan can help. If you’re on a Verizon Unlimited plan, you can add a kid’s line with 5 GB of data and 20 contacts for text and talk. The Verizon Smart Family app, which is included, also lets you track location and monitor usage.

What phone boundaries are you comfortable with for your child?

It's important to discuss smartphone time with any kids of all ages. The older your kids are when they get their first smartphone, the more they'll recognize the value of face-to-face communication versus just relying on texts and social media comments.

The average consumer spends 5 hours a day on their phone, and 78% of teens check them at least hourly. Addictive tendencies are even greater in young kids, so it's important to consider some guardrails including:

• Calls and text only: A basic phone limited to calling and individual texting can help encourage responsible habits.
  
• Password transparency: Consider requiring your children to provide their passcodes.
  
• Screen-free zones: It’s OK to create designated times or rooms where your kids cannot be on their phones — meals, Saturday mornings, the dining room and bedrooms, for example. 
  
• Family contract: Some families create shared phone usage rules and hang them in a central location as a reminder.
  

The right connections for every member of your family.

Your child’s first phone is a big milestone. Explore this library of tips and advice from Verizon to help you make the best decision for your connected family.