what is the best first smartphone for my child

I’m so excited to share this sponsored post for Tracfone as part of the Mom It Forward Blogger Network..

You may be asking is my child ready for a phone or what is the best first smartphone for my child?  First off, just think about the reason that they would need this phone- to keep them busy when you are waiting?   Or maybe because they are going to sports practice after school?   Whatever the reason is- the end decision is up to you and it is only your decision.

The best reason to give your child a phone is to be able to keep in touch with you.  Are they going to a friend’s house and you want them to be able to call you on the spot?   Are they going to stay after school to play soccer with some friends?   Having a phone works out great for that!   My college friend and her husband recently split up and they have given their child a new phone, to be able to stay in touch with both parents easily.

Plus, you can’t really beat the convenience of a phone.   You can call or text them, no matter where they are, to find out where they are at all times (if they are outside playing with friends, this is an awesome feature!)

Did you know that since 2004, the number of kids with cell phones has gone up by 50%?

-85% of teenagers (14-17) have phones

-69% of 11-14 year olds have phones

-31% of kids aged 8-10 have phones.

There are phones out there that are perfect for a child’s first phone!  I, personally, love the TracFone LG Optimus Fuel™ Android™. They have teamed up with Nickelodeon to let kids have access to free SpongeBob SquarePants videos, apps and more!   Plus, you don’t have to have a contract. Think of it as a calling card phone- you buy the airtime that you want.  It’s just a more affordable, family-friendly phone for your child.  With TracFone, kids can have a smartphone that isn’t breaking the bank.  Plus, it teaches your kids about responsibility (they have to watch their minutes to make sure that they don’t run out.)   You can even get a GPS tracking system (I would get this in a heartbeat!)   Parents can stay connected with their children with TracFone’s unbeatable nationwide coverage.


A few more reasons you’ll love this phone: 

• Kids can talk & text with their friends and family as well as get free, exclusive access to fun SpongeBob SquarePants accessories and content, from headphones and full episodes to games and apps.
• It has access to SpongeBob SquarePants content and the NQ Family Guardian™ parental control app, is available for a limited time at Target, Walmart and Kroger for $29.99.  It comes with the fun SpongeBob SquarePants content and accessories to create a unique look for your phone.

What I would do:

• Use it for friends’ houses
• Use it to take to school with the rule that it is off during school hours
• Use it for practice
• Get the GPS Tracking system
• Give it as a gift 


I am a worrier, so a smartphone for when our child is going to be a practice or a friend’s house is definitely something that is worth considering for our family.

Disclaimer: Plans and Phones sold separately. Average cost of $7/month* (*A month equals 30 days). Check coverage availability and Terms and Conditions of Service at https://bit.ly/1yzVLe2. Other limitations apply.  See www.tracfoneparents.com for more information.

MSRP of $79.99 (special Holiday offer at $29.99 from 11/29 to 12/31) o Walmart, Target and Kroger

Disclosure: I have partnered and was compensated by TracFone for this promotion.