At the age of 12, many children start asking for their first mobile phone. At this stage, a phone is no longer just for entertainment—it becomes a social tool. Chatting with friends, using WhatsApp to stay in touch, or simply feeling included is important for pre-teens. However, giving a smartphone with unrestricted access can expose them to inappropriate content, constant distractions and online environments they’re not yet ready for.
what does a 12-year-old need in a phone?
A child of this age needs a phone that allows them to stay connected, function day-to-day, and—most importantly—keep them safe. It’s not about having the fastest processor or best camera, but about offering a controlled environment with no access to social media, violent games or dangerous websites.
Rather than choosing the most popular models, it’s worth focusing on devices that prioritise digital wellbeing. A good smartphone at this stage should include clear boundaries, content controls and the chance to learn responsible use from day one.
best smartphone options for 12-year-olds
When faced with this decision, many parents choose not to buy a phone at all. At first glance, that may seem like the safest choice. But total restriction can create other problems—teasing at school, feelings of exclusion or even social isolation. And in reality, the content we try to shield them from usually appears anyway—on a friend’s phone, the family computer, a tablet or even a gaming console.
Rather than banning, it’s more effective to guide. Teaching children to use technology in a healthy way, with limits and tools that help create good digital habits, is a long-term solution.
The Balance Phone offers a practical middle ground. It’s a smartphone designed for kids and teens, with pre-installed restrictions that cannot be bypassed. It blocks access to social media, addictive apps and unsafe websites, while still allowing essential tools like WhatsApp or maps to function within a safe environment. It gives peace of mind to parents and controlled freedom to children.
If you're considering options for slightly younger children, you may find this comparison of phones for 10 and 11-year-olds helpful, or explore devices that combine simplicity with useful features, like these dumbphones with WhatsApp or Spotify.
Choosing a first smartphone for a 12-year-old isn’t just a tech decision—it’s an educational one. It’s not about giving in or saying no, but about guiding. With the right device, such as the Balance Phone, and active support from the family, it’s possible to build a healthy relationship with technology from the start. Teaching responsible use today is the best way to prepare our children for tomorrow’s digital world.
