Tips for parentsA smartphone under the Christmas tree?
Is my child old enough to have his or her own smartphone?
Many parents want a clear age statement as an answer to this question. However, it makes more sense than looking at the age to consider the child's stage of development.
- With the klicksafe checklist "Is my child fit for his or her own smartphone? "parents can check alone or together with their child whether a smartphone belongs under the Christmas tree or not.
Can smartphones be childproofed?
There is no such thing as complete protection against negative content and experiences when using a smartphone. Nevertheless, it is highly advisable to exhaust all possibilities of technical protection measures.
- In the klicksafe topic area on youth protection programs, you will find general information on technical youth media protection, but also information specifically on Google Family Link, iOS screen time and Salfeld parental controls.
- Step-by-step instructions for safely setting up individual devices, apps or operating systems can be found at www.medien-kindersicher.de.
- In the video series "mobil & safe", together with mobilsicher.de, we provide information in ten videos on how to set up a smartphone correctly. There are also tips on the security settings of various apps.
What rules about the smartphone are important?
With a smartphone, children potentially have access to the entire internet. In addition to all the exciting and entertaining things, this also includes a whole range of harmful or dangerous content. Don't wait until the first problems arise. Talk to your children proactively about possible dangers and point out options for action.
Due to the wide range of risks(cybergrooming, cyberbullying, hate speech, fake news, shopping traps and much more), not all issues can be clarified in a single conversation. Rather, parents should be prepared to remain in ongoing exchange with the childto actively accompany their online activities. In order to avoid constant discussions about smartphone use in families, rules drawn up jointly and at an early stage can help.
- With the online media usage contract, families can individually determine which media may be used when and for how long. The corresponding flyer is available here.
- The brochure "The first smartphone - how can I protect my child from sexual violence on the internet?" helps parents to deal with the risks of sexual assault at an early stage. The brochure is available to download or order as a print version.
Are smartwatches a good alternative?
Some parents are not sure whether their child is ready for their own smartphone. In this case, a smartwatch can seem like a good middle ground. This is because, unlike smartphones, they do not offer comprehensive access to the internet. Depending on the device, the functions are limited to making calls and writing messages. There are now also some models that are marketed specifically to children (or their parents). Parents can set up these devices individually. For example, they can decide which numbers their child is allowed to call.
Whether a smartwatch is a sensible alternative also depends on why the child wants a smartphone. After all, a smartphone is much more than just a communication device. Without a smartphone, children miss out on what happens in the class chat. They can't have a say when it comes to the latest mobile games. And last but not least, a smartphone is also a coveted status symbol. Parents should discuss with their children what purpose a smartphone should fulfill in their child's life. You can then consider whether a smartwatch offers a sensible alternative.
One critical aspect of smartwatches is that they allow parents to monitor their children. Smartwatches are usually equipped with a GPS tracker. This allows parents to see where their child is or which route they have taken. In our Smartwatch topic we provide detailed information on what parents should consider when equipping their child with a smartwatch.
