Some communities such as Galicia or the Region of Murcia have already established a protocol prohibiting the use of smartphones in educational centers, intended for minors and the impossibility of using these devices even during rest hours (except in exceptional and justified cases ). Well this reopens a eternal debate on the appropriate time to offer the minor his first smartphone.
The experts have talked about it and we have already told you that there is not a single recommendation, even if almost everyone agrees to indicate an indicative age. And both for full ownership of cell phones like an iPhone and for recreational use when they are still very young.
From 0 to 3 years old, no more being glued to a screen
Many psychologists and pediatricians have spoken out at some point on this issue. Our colleague Laura Sacristán had the opportunity a few years ago to speak with experts from Xataka Móvil and, more recently, another group of experts spoke about it to the Catalan media.
It is in the first stage of the child’s life that the use of this technology is fully recommended.. In many families, iPhones and iPads are often used as resources to keep little ones entertained or spend less time eating. However, experts seem dissatisfied in this regard and recommend other stimuli.
The question is particularly sensitive when breastfeeding or playing with the baby. In this sense, they not only advise against being in front of a smartphone, but they also recommend having a television on even if it is in the background. All with the aim of “encouraging the creation of a secure bond in which the adult is attentive to the needs of the minor and promoting emotional education at home”.
From 3 to 6 years old, more permissive, but with very marked limits
In this age group, experts The use of smartphones is still discouraged, although they have some exceptions, such as making a video call with one of their parents or loved ones. They are more categorical in discouraging video game consoles altogether.
However, in general, not everyone advises against it. What they agree on is emphasizing the need to set deadlines in order to avoid the emergence of dependence. So the recommended exposure time is around 20 to 30 minutes, but only a few days a week and never more.
From 6 to 12 years, longer periods of use, but always with limits
At the age of 12, many young people are already starting high school and with this a stage in which they become more and more aware. However, until then, it is still requested that limits are established and always monitored. Not only because of the negative impact of a smartphone screen, but also because of the dangers of the network.
It is precisely with regard to this last point that some experts emphasize the need for parents to discuss certain sensitive issues with minors in relation to pornography and the sexual threats they may receive. The idea is for the minor to be able to identify dangerous situations and communicate them to their parents or guardians.
If the minor must go out with a cell phone, experts agree that they don’t recommend just any iPhone or Android. No. Their advice is to equip the minor with a simple device that barely allows them to make and receive calls, just enough, they say, to be able to communicate with their family when needed.
From 12 to 16 years old, greater tolerance, but without moving away from family control
At this stage, closer to adolescence, some might already consider giving an iPhone or other cell phone to the minor. However, experts remain categorical in stating that They are still young to own their own mobile device..
They recommend granting greater tolerance in this range, although they continue to request that be monitored in uses and in particular on social networks
Also at this stage it is recommended that minors take precautions in chats and avoid ideas such as chatting and even meeting strangers. Respect and the right to privacy are two other values that are encouraged to be promoted in this group.
Although they do not ask to be above the minor when using it, they emphasize that it is necessary monitor your smartphone regularly to verify that it is actually being used correctly. Therefore, they also recommend establishing common passwords that family members can know.
You can give an iPhone to your child, but from 16 years old
Some experts even believe that reaching adulthood is the optimal time for a young person to own their first cell phone. However, the vast majority of experts emphasize that 16 years is the recommended minimum agedespite the fact that statistics show that they are generally delivered sooner.
Although more than age, they emphasize that The maturity and autonomy of young people are paramount when making this decision. Here we no longer talk about supervision, but we also emphasize the importance of maintaining good education and communication with the minor to avoid dangers.
Cover image | Álvaro García M. with DALL-E 3
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