Deciding whether or not to give your child a connected device isn't something to be taken lightly. We want to educate and empower you and your child through advice and tools, helping you to have open conversations and a positive relationship with technology.
Two thirds of children have had harmful experiences online, according to a 2024 report from leading child safety organisation, Internet Matters. This could include anything from viewing inappropriate content to identity theft and grooming.
Knowing how to talk to your child about online safety is so important, as is deciding the right age to let your child online and with what device.
Check out our age-based recommendations for ensuring kids stay safe online.
Under 11
Go for non-smart devices, like ‘feature phones’. They can make texts and calls but can’t access social media or inappropriate content.
See more about practical tips to help young children have safer online experiences and develop their digital resilience by Internet Matters.
11-13
If you choose to give your child a smartphone in this age group, we recommend that parental controls are enabled and access to social media is restricted. Learn more about what to do when buying your child's first smartphone.
See more practical tips to help pre-teens have safer online experiences by Internet Matters.
13-16
As your child becomes a teenager, it’s likely the internet will be a part of their daily life. Most teenagers have access to the internet using a smartphone or tablet, and use a wide range of social media sites.
Use parental controls to manage and restrict children’s access to inappropriate sites, content, and platforms. You can also link social media profiles to a parent or guardian account. See more about online safety for teens by Internet Matters.
Age-appropriate tech options for under 11s:
Use our tools and guides for staying safe online.
Set spending caps, stop children adding extra charges to the bill, and block adult content with our Set Up Safe guide.
Block inappropriate content with parental controls. See how to set parental controls for mobile plans and parental controls when using WiFi at home.
Talk to your child about the dangers of posting personal information online. Learn how to manage device settings and use passwords to protect their identity.
Our EE PhoneSmart Licence is a really fun way for children to learn about being internet savvy. They can also find a wealth of resources to make learning online enjoyable and safe on EE Learn. And you can discover m ore about the world of gaming on EE GameSmart.
We’ve teamed up with Internet Matters to create a hub of information that will guide you through everything from staying safe on social media to buying your child’s first smartphone.
See advice and tips on online safety.