The youngest age British parents think kids should have smartphones

With more children being exposed to technology at younger ages, the question of when to give a child their first smartphone has become a common concern for parents. According to a YouGov survey research, parents in Great Britain have varied opinions on the youngest age a child should receive their first smartphone.

The data reveals that a small percentage of Britons and parents of children younger than 18 believe that children as young as 5 to 7 years old should have a smartphone, with 1% of all adults and 4% of parents supporting this. The most common age range where parents are more comfortable is 11 to 13 years old. About 44% of the general population and 51% of parents feel that this is the ideal time for a child to own their first smartphone. The trend continues with 30% of all adults and 23% of parents agreeing that children between 14 and 16 years old are ready for smartphones. On the other hand, few believe in waiting until the child is 17 years or older, with only 11% of all adults and 5% of parents in agreement. 

The data suggests that one in five parents prefer to introduce smartphones when kids are 10 years old or younger (19%) while the majority (73%) think early teenage years (11-16 years) is the right time.

Methodology: YouGov Surveys: Serviced provide quick survey results from nationally representative or targeted audiences in multiple markets. This study was conducted online in August 2024, with a nationally/ representative sample of 2004 adults (aged 18+ years) in Great Britain, using a questionnaire designed by YouGov. Data figures have been weighted by age, gender, education and social grade to be representative of all adults in Great Britain (18 years or older) and reflect the latest ONS population estimates.