For younger kids and teens, a flip phone, smartphone alternative, or family loaner phone (see this page) can help you give them independence and allow them to communicate with their peers while keeping them safe from addictive design features, online predators, inappropriate content, and other threats. (If you ever feel your resolve wavering, remember: when you hand your child a smartphone, you are giving them access to the entire internet—and you’re also giving the entire internet access to your child. Not ready for either of these things? Then say no.)
