The first mobile phone for children It has become an increasingly common and controversial decision in many Spanish families. Although for many it is simply a logical step towards independence, data warn of significant consequences for the emotional well-being and mental health of minorsIf you want to know how the use of devices affects children, you can check out our article on excessive use of mobile devices.
In recent years, the average age for acquiring a first mobile phone has steadily decreased, and Spain is no exception. Thousands of girls and boys, even before turning 10, already have their own smartphone., promoting new habits, relationships and risks around them.
At what age are people given their first cell phone and why is this a concern?
Recent reports show that Children receive their first smartphone before the age of 10, and in many cases even before. The 60% Of those under 10, they already have one, and when they reach 13, the number exceeds 90%This early acquisition is usually motivated by the need to location and contact, especially in families where children spend long periods of time alone at home due to work or lack of resources. To better understand the implications of this first contact, you may find our analysis of The impact of mobile game use on children.
However, what began as a tool to stay connected It becomes a gateway to the Internet, social networks and all kinds of unfiltered content.. According to data from a study by the Global Mind Project, conducted on more than 100.000 young adults, receiving the first mobile phone before the age of 13 multiplies the likelihood of suffering from mental health problems in adolescence and early adulthood.
Main risks associated with the first mobile phone in childhood
The Anxiety disorders, depression, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, and relationship difficulties They appear more frequently among those who had early access to a smartphone, according to experts. The study also points to a higher incidence of cyberbullying, sleep disorders, and family conflicts. For a deeper understanding of how to manage children's early exposure to technology, see our article on international measures to limit the use.
The social media play a decisive role in this scenario. Accessing these services before sufficient judgment and maturity amplifies exposure to comparisons, external validation, and, sometimes, harmful content. In fact, it is estimated that around 40% The deterioration in mental health is linked to the early use of digital networks.
In addition, during the summer and school holidays, the screen usage skyrocketsChildren spend more time alone, and the internet and mobile phones become their usual companions, increasing the risk of digital loneliness and device addiction. To understand how educational policies affect this reality, review our analysis of the elimination of mobile phones in schools in Portugal.
What do experts and families think?
Health professionals, such as child psychiatrists, psychologists and pediatricians, agree that Minors do not have the necessary maturity to manage information, relationships or social pressure derived from the free use of the Internet and social networks. They recommend that, if it is essential to provide them with a telephone, it should be basic and with limited functions., at least until the age of 16. For more details on parental controls and usage management, visit our article on child protection technology.
Only 42,9% of families effectively limit device use. Many parents admit to not knowing how to implement controls, while a large group underestimates the relationship between mobile phone use and sleep problems, academic performance, or social isolation. However, scientific data warns that correlation exists and affects the emotional and social construction of minorsDiscover how to improve family screen time management on our portal.
The health and education authorities point out the importance of limiting screen use in the early years. It is advised to active supervision and accompaniment Beyond time control, emphasizing the role of the family in prevention and healthy development. To understand international policies, also explore regulations in other countries through .
Proposed measures and international examples
Given this situation, research teams and different international organizations propose to apply a precautionary principle comparable to that for potentially harmful substances, such as tobacco or alcohol. This would involve legally restricting access to smartphones and social media for children under 13, along with mandatory digital literacy and mental health programs in schools. For a deeper look into the proposed regulations, see our analysis on .
Some countries and cities have already taken steps in this direction. France, Italy, the Netherlands or New York have established certain restrictions on the use of telephones in educational centers, although the average age of acquisition continues to fall and supervision is insufficient. Experts insist that the Prevention must begin at home with clear limits and open dialogue on the responsible use of technology.
There is also consensus in the medical community on the importance of other strategies, such as promoting free play, sports, and face-to-face interaction, as well as encouraging screen-free spaces, especially in childhood and preadolescence. To this end, it may be helpful to consult our recommendations for teaching children responsible mobile phone use.
Current data and analysis make it clear that Giving a child their first mobile phone is a momentous decision., the consequences of which can extend for years. Choosing the right moment, supporting the process, and setting limits is not simply a matter of trust, but of health and well-being. The responsibility falls on families, schools, and society as a whole to ensure that technology becomes an ally, not a threat, to children's emotional and social development.
