Dear SAFE: My Kid Wants a Phone. Now What?

It starts so innocently.
“Mom, all my friends have one.”
“Dad, I promise I’ll only use it for homework.”
And just like that, your 10-year-old is lobbying hard for a smartphone.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. According to Consumer Affairs, kids on average get their first smartphone at 11 years old. By age 15, almost all children have a cellphone. If you're a parent, we know this decision goes deeper than just screen time. You're thinking about safety, responsibility, and, of course, money.

So, how do you handle the first phone milestone without losing your mind (or your budget)?

1. Start With a conversation

Before buying anything, sit down with your child and talk about what having a phone really means. Go ahead and set boundaries like when and where the phone can be used, what apps are allowed, and who they can communicate with.

When you hand them a phone, you're handing them access to the world.

2. Let Them Help Pay (Even Just a Little)

Even if you plan to cover the monthly bill, this is a great opportunity to teach financial responsibility. If your child earns an allowance or gift money, consider asking them to contribute toward a portion of the cost. That can be as simple as buying their own phone case, headphones, or even a small amount of the monthly plan.

Extra Tip: Consider setting up a Millionaires of Tomorrow youth savings account at the SAFE. Your child can track their progress toward saving for tech purchases (or future upgrades), and you can set savings goals together. We make it simple to open one with as little as $5. Plus, you can stay in full control as a joint account holder if you'd like.

3. Talk About the “True Cost” of a Phone

A new iPhone may be $0 down with a monthly plan, but over time, those costs stack up. Break down the monthly payment plus the data plan, accessories, and potential insurance. Show your child how a $25 monthly phone adds up to $300 a year. Trust us, that number hits differently when they see it come out of their own piggy bank.

4. Introduce the Idea of Digital Wellness

It’s not all about money. This is a great opportunity for you to set the tone for how your child interacts with the digital world. There are great resources like Google’s “Be Internet Awesome” program that offers free, kid-friendly lessons on online safety, cyberbullying, and screen time balance. Make it part of your first phone agreement.

5. Make It a Family Agreement, Not a Solo Decision

We love the idea of writing up a short “phone contract” between you and your child. It doesn’t have to be a super formal document with a notary and witnesses!

It can be a simple list of guidelines and expectations that only takes a few minutes to draft. Plus, it's a great foundation for trust and accountability.

Overall, saying yes to a phone is a big decision and a critical teaching moment. Remember, your SAFE family is here to support you with tools to build smart financial habits with your kids from the very start.

If you'd like some help opening a youth account or budgeting for new expenses, stop by your nearest branch or give us a call at 800-763-8600. We’re always here to help with important life decisions (big and small). It's their first phone today--it'll be their first car before you know it!