
My kid wants a phone… it’s a thought that can open up a flood of emotions: anxiety, guilt, pressure, or even relief. Maybe they’re the last one in their class without one, or maybe you’ve caught them sneakily borrowing your device more than once. But before heading straight to the store or clicking “add to cart,” it’s worth pausing. Getting a phone is more than a purchase—it’s a major parenting milestone that comes with new responsibilities, safety considerations, and unexpected challenges. Here are twelve questions to help you figure out whether the time is right and what your family truly needs.