The age at which children can independently use mobile phones is 12-14 years. This was stated by Senator Artem Sheikin. In his opinion, if parents cultivate a digital culture in their child from an early age, it is possible to allow the use of a smartphone even earlier.
Today, a mobile phone for a child is not just a means of communication in the classical sense, but a part of the educational and social environment. A safe guideline for independent use of a smartphone can be considered the age of 12-14 years.
Nevertheless, if parents actively teach children responsibility and familiarize them with possible risks, a smartphone can be entrusted to a child at an earlier stage, but under strict parental control, the parliamentarian believes.
Sheikin emphasized that it is important to find the right balance. Bans on the use of smartphones can lead to the child remaining in the "digital\nshadow of peers." On the other hand, the absence of restrictions can lead to cyber threats or mental health problems.
The senator believes that the approach to this issue should be conscious and gradual: first provide limited opportunities for communication, and then gradually expand them as the child grows and understands.
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