Experts Argue About This Question.
The children you see on the street with smartphones are getting younger and younger. But when is it too early for a smartphone?
As early as the second grade, students are said to be bullied for not having a smartphone. Is that early or even too late to introduce children to the use of smartphones? The media experts disagree on this question, but they all have a common opinion: no devices for children under three years of age! A toddler’s brain works entirely differently than an adult’s. Therefore, spending too much time in front of the screen can lead to problems sleeping and concentrating.
In addition to online bullying, counter-arguments also include derailed nude photos and violent videos.
Nobody can say precisely when children should get their first smartphone. Media educator recommends taking a look at the environment. For example, in some schools in Hamburg, there are no longer any second graders without a smartphone. Still, a few kilometers further, there are also wholly “cell phone-free” elementary schools.
What you shouldn’t do as a parent, however, are prohibitions and ignoring the topic. Talk to other parents and your child about the subject and the dangers of a smartphone. A child’s borrowed cell phone is usually enough to try it out.
Nevertheless: If you don’t want your child to sit in front of the screen all day, set a good example yourself and switch off the cell phone now and then.
Also Read: Which iPad Is Right For Me?