Majority of Kids Are Granted Cell Phone Use by Age Seven
In a recent survey conducted by Bitkom, a renowned digital association in Germany, insights into the digital habits of children aged 6 to 18 were uncovered. The findings suggest a trend of early adoption of digital devices, with many children owning smartphones and using social media at a younger age than recommended by educators and safety experts.
According to the survey, by the age of eleven, most children in Germany own a smartwatch, often purchased by parents for monitoring purposes rather than a request from the children. By nine, many children also own a smartphone, and by eight, tablet use is common. Gaming consoles are typically introduced by age nine.
Regarding social media, children under six to nine years are generally not allowed personal accounts. From ages ten to twelve, some children are permitted shared use or limited profiles, while at thirteen years old, most parents grant full access. By sixteen years old, most restrictions are lifted.
The survey indicates that 77% of parents do not allow 6-9 year olds to have their own social media user account or co-use. None of the surveyed parents allow a recognizable social media account with a name or photo for 6-9 year olds. However, 16% of parents allow co-use of an adult or family account for this age group.
As for older children, 80% of parents allow their 13-18 year old children to have their own social media profiles. By 16 years old, most restrictions on social media use are lifted, and 83% of 16-18 year olds have their own, recognizable social media profile with parental consent.
Interestingly, the survey also reveals that parents often buy smartwatches for their children to track their whereabouts, not because the children ask for them. The Bitkom survey suggests that most seven-year-old children in Germany use a smartphone, and by nine, many children also use a gaming console.
The survey, published by Bitkom in Berlin, includes responses from 1,004 parents of children aged 6 to 18. Educators and safety experts emphasize that social media and smartphone access should ideally come with education on online safety and digital literacy to reduce risks, including mental health challenges linked to very early smartphone use.
In conclusion, the survey provides an insightful look into the digital habits of children in Germany. While it shows a trend of early adoption of digital devices, it also underscores the importance of education and responsible parenting in the digital age.
Science and technology have significantly influenced family health, with the growing trend of early adoption of digital devices among children in Germany. Smartphones, gaming consoles, and smartwatches are increasingly common among children as young as seven, often purchased by parents for monitoring and safety purposes. However, health-and-wellness experts emphasize the need for education on online safety and digital literacy to minimize risks, particularly mental health challenges associated with early smartphone use. Parenting in the digital age requires a balance between providing access to these gadgets and ensuring children's health and wellness.
