Buying Your Child's First Device
A practical purchasing guide that puts safety alongside specs and budget.
What to consider before buying
Before choosing a device, think about what your child actually needs it for. Communication only? Education? Entertainment? The answer determines whether a basic phone, tablet, laptop, or smartphone is the right choice. Also consider your child's age, maturity, and your ability to supervise — a less capable device with good controls may be safer than a powerful one with none.
Safety features to prioritise
When comparing devices, look for: built-in parental controls (Apple Screen Time, Google Family Link, Amazon Kids+), child account support (not just an adult account with restrictions), content filtering, app installation approval, screen time management, and communication controls. Devices with robust built-in controls require less third-party software and are easier to manage.
Device types compared
Basic phones (no internet) suit younger children who need communication only. Tablets with parental controls (Amazon Fire Kids, iPad with Screen Time) suit younger children for supervised learning and entertainment. Chromebooks offer good school integration with Google Family Link controls. Smartphones are best reserved for children who have demonstrated readiness — typically 12+.
Budget-friendly safe options
Safety does not require expensive devices. Amazon Fire tablets with Kids+ offer strong parental controls at a low price. Refurbished iPhones and Android phones work well with parental control apps. Chromebooks are affordable and integrate with Google Family Link. A second-hand device with good controls is safer than a new device with none.
Setup before giving
Always set up the device fully before giving it to your child. Create a child account, install parental controls, configure content filters, disable in-app purchases, and set screen time limits. Our device setup guides provide step-by-step instructions for every major device type.
This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.
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