This chapter explores the critical considerations for parents contemplating giving their child a mobile phone, focusing on readiness factors such as social skills and impulse control. It contrasts various parenting styles—limiters, mentors, and enablers—while discussing the importance of setting clear boundaries and expectations. The speakers emphasize the necessity of gradual introduction to phone usage, fostering open communication, and modeling responsible behavior to support children during this transition.
What you need to know before giving your kid a phone, plus the Wirecutter-tested trackers, smartwatches, and phones to consider.
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Check out more NYT podcast coverage about the recent push to ban phones in schools from The Daily and Hard Fork.
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Find edited transcripts for each episode at nytimes.com/wirecutter.