Finding the right mobile phone for a 7-year-old can be tricky.
With all the explicit content on the internet and distracting apps many phones come with on default, it’s tough to decide which phone is best for your little one.
We’re here to help.
The right phone for your 7-year-old will come with:
- Basic call and text features
- Little to no apps
- Limited Internet access
- Safety features like GPS tracking
- Parental controls—either built-in or through a parental control app
In this article, we’ll take you through:
- The pros and cons of giving a child a phone at 7 years old and what the research says.
- The 10 best phones for 7-year-olds.
First, let’s look at the research and context parents need to know before buying phones for kids.
Frequently Asked | Read This Before Buying Your Kid a Phone
According to Pew Research, the major reason kids under 11 have their own smartphones is to make it easier for children to contact their parents. Consider this a serious advantage of parenting in the digital age!
But there are real risks to be aware of. We discuss them in depth below.
Should a 7-year-old have a phone?
Nobody knows better than you whether to get your child a phone. We’ll take you through what the experts say to help you make the right choice for your family.
Here are the fast facts, according to this study:
- Almost a quarter of kids aged 5 to 7 have a smartphone
- About a third of those kids use their phones independently
That means they can unwittingly wander into areas of the internet that are definitely not for young eyes. (Worrying, yes — but read on. It’s not the whole story.)
Added to this, excessive cell phone usage can negatively impact:
- Sleep quality (Study link)
- Eyesight (Study link)
- Children’s development in relation to social adjustment (Study link)
So, does that mean mobile phones for 7-year-olds are a no-go?
Well, it’s not that simple.
In this study of elementary school children, smartphone access was shown to improve academic performance.
Research also shows that children’s smartphone usage can have a positive effect on their motor skills.
Young kids are also using phones to learn amazing new skills — kids are learning coding from as young as four years old!
It’s also important to consider that our kids are growing up in a world where social media is HUGE and not going anywhere. The reality is users are getting younger and younger:
While that may feel disconcerting, it also has many benefits. Think of that family group chat on WhatsApp they now actively participate in, or the enriching content they can engage with on social media, including DIY projects, singing, and math and writing.
But here’s the key:
Kids should not be given free rein on the Internet and their phones. Parents must put comprehensive parental controls in place
Parental controls can help you give your kids a safe phone and online experience while they enjoy the benefits of having their own phone.
When you choose to get your child a cellphone, it doesn’t have to be a decision between their safety and ability to stay in touch, learn new skills, and improve their digital literacy.
If you install a parental control app like Canopy from the get-go on their phones, it’s possible to have the best of all worlds.
Should I buy a smartphone or a dumb phone for my kid?
To answer this question, first, assess why you want your kid to have a phone in the first place.
If you want to keep them digitally disconnected as long as possible but would like them to be able to contact you when they need to, a simple dumb phone may be all you need. (We take you through our top picks here.)
If, on the other hand, you’d like them to have features that can stimulate their learning and teach them independence and responsibility, a smartphone may be the better choice.
As research from Concordia University shows, smartphones can have important impacts on your child’s development, including:
- Promoting self-sufficiency. Early introduction to phones can help them self-regulate their use — provided there are adults strictly monitoring them and guiding them toward healthy habits.
- Improving digital literacy. Our kids are entering a world where knowing your way around smart devices is vital.
- Accessing emergency services. If anything ever goes wrong, a smartphone can help your child toward safety. Firstly, they’ll be able to contact an adult in charge. Secondly, with parental controls in place, you will be able to track their location at all times.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. At this young age, a simple talk-text phone may feel more appropriate to your family’s needs.
Here’s a checklist to help you decide:
You should get a dumb phone for your kids if:
- They’re not ready to handle the responsibility of an expensive object.
- You want them to have a super durable phone. (Some are built for construction sites!)
- You want them to stay digitally disconnected as long as possible.
- You want them to use their phone as a hotspot for another device.
- You get a great deal! (Some simple dumb phones are really affordable.)
You should get a smartphone for your kids if:
- You have chosen a third-party parental control app to help them use their phones safely.
- You want them to have access to educational content.
- You want them to improve their digital literacy.
- You would like them to have real-time tracking features on their phone.
- You want to give them access to a high-quality camera and video recorder.
- You want to provide them with a platform to listen to music and podcasts.
- You’d like to connect with them using communication apps like WhatsApp and Messenger.
What parental control measures should I put in place on my child’s phone?
Whether you get a dumb phone or a smartphone, it’s crucial to implement parental control measures to limit screen time and prevent your kids from accessing inappropriate content.
Here are three measures we recommend:
1. Install a comprehensive parental control app.
Most parental control apps will let you set screen time limits, block apps and websites, and track your kids’ locations.
All these are necessary, but they’re not enough.
The Internet is littered with inappropriate, explicit content not meant for your little one’s eyes.
From pesky pop-ups and Amazon store listings to YouTube ads, inappropriate content is everywhere—and the best parental control app will block these in real-time before your kids see them.
That’s what we built our parental control app, Canopy, for.
Canopy uses a real-time AI filter that scans a webpage, understands the context, and blocks out inappropriate images before they appear on your kid’s phone. This includes anything from partial nudity (like a bikini) to full nudity.
This means:
✅ Your kids can still access websites like YouTube, but they won’t be able to see anything inappropriate.
✅ The AI filter scans content in real-time, not against databases or blacklists, so it’s more accurate and comprehensive.
✅ Even if your child hunts down secret websites, they will not be able to see anything inappropriate as Canopy will automatically filter it out before it reaches their device. This also protects them from accidentally stumbling across explicit content while browsing the internet.
Sarah from Family Tech reviewed Canopy at lengths here.
Canopy also comes with:
1. Website and app blocking: You can decide which websites and apps to block or allow access to. For instance, if you wanted to block YouTube as a whole but allow a specific educational channel, you can add just that URL on Canopy and choose “Allowed”.
Canopy also allows you to block entire Content Categories like gambling and porn. This will block all the websites and apps underneath that category.
2. Sexting prevention: Canopy prevents sexting by immediately alerting you when your kid takes a risky photo, or when they receive one. You will need to approve the image before your kid can see it or send it to someone.
3. Social media monitoring: From the Parent dashboard, you can see which social media apps or websites your kids used. Always be in the know about their online activities.
4. Location tracking: Canopy shows you the location of a protected device (aka. Your kid’s mobile phone) on a detailed GPS map anytime you’d like. Side note: This feature is only available on devices that have GPS capabilities.
5. Removal prevention: With other parental control apps, kids can easily delete the app itself or find-workarounds. But the Canopy app comes with built-in settings on both Android and iPhone that prevents this from happening.
Canopy works across all your devices and operating systems, including Android, iOS, windows, MacOS, and Chrome.
It also works cross-functionally, which means even if you have an Android and your kid has an iPhone, you can still set and manage controls on their device.
2. Set down ground rules.
Luckily, parental controls can help you set phone limits through features like screen time limits and website and app limits.
You may also want to consider implementing rules like:
- No cellphones at the dinner table.
- Phones off two hours before bedtime.
- No more than (x) number of screen time hours a day. (The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry doesn’t recommend a specific number of hours for kids older than 6. They do say that you should limit it and encourage healthy habits.)
- Tell an adult if you see anything on your phone that makes you uncomfortable.
- Never answer a call or message from someone you don’t know.
3. Watch your own cell phone usage.
Scrolling through your own social media can be a welcome break. However, it’s important to do this consciously. Our kids are watching us.
Research on distracted parenting has shown that using phones can interfere with our relationships with our kids.
It’s also tougher to enforce screen time limits if you can’t show that you can stick to them yourself.
If you’d like specific resources on how to reduce screen time, check out our guides:
What kind of parental control app should you install on your kids’ phone?
If you decide to give your kid a smartphone, it’s non-negotiable that you install a parental control app.
But not all parental control apps are created equal — some only come with basic screen time limits, while others offer comprehensive monitoring or real-time content filtering.
When looking for one, it’s important to choose one that best helps you meet your goal. For instance, if your goal is to just limit screen time, you can stick with the basic parental controls on iOS or Android phones or use free tools like Google Family Link.
However, if your goal is to protect your kids from harmful content and prevent sexting and other risky behaviors, we recommend looking for one that:
- Lets you choose which websites, apps, and specific URLs you’d like to block or allow
- Filters out explicit content on all websites in real-time, before it reaches your kids’ device
- Prevents sexting by alerting you whenever an inappropriate image is taken or received
- Allows you to set Internet downtimes where your kids won’t be able to access the Internet
- Monitors Internet, app, and social media usage
- Tracks your kid’s location
- Prevents kids from removing the app from their device
- Is compatible with all your devices
What kind of phone plan should I choose?
Choosing the right device is only one part of the task. You also have to find the right plan to fit your family’s needs.
Here are the top considerations when picking the right plan:
- Carrier: Would you like your whole family to stick to one carrier? If so, a Family Plan may be the answer for your household. Many of the main carriers offer plans with multiple lines for more affordable prices. Top family plans include T-Mobile Essentials Family Plan and AT&T Family Plan.
- Parental controls: Some plans come with parental controls as part of the deal while others offer them as an add-on. Have a look at Verizon Just Kids Plan.
- Affordability: Check out Mint Mobile and Hello Mobile for affordable options.
- Contract type: Many prepaid plans are cheaper than post-paid options and don’t require a contract. Postpaid plans can be a good way to finance a more expensive phone.
- Commitment level: Consider whether a month-to-month contract may be a good option or if you’d like to lock into a longer deal. Straight Talk Wireless offers no contract phones.
- Data, talk, and text limits: Are you looking for unlimited talk and text? How much data would you like them to have? You might want to get an old phone of your own up and running again that they can only use on wifi.
Google Fi offers both unlimited and flexible plans where you only get charged for the data you use. (They also have excellent international coverage!)
10 Best Mobile Phones for 7-Year-Olds in 2024
Here are the best phones for 7-year-olds we’ll be reviewing, what they’re best for, and their costs.
Let’s look at each phone in depth.
1. Troomi
Use it for: A touch screen kid-friendly smartphone built to keep young users safe and stimulated.
Troomi phones are constructed with kid safety in mind. They include a safe browser and only have apps that have been pre-vetted for their educational and developmental value.
You get to monitor their activity through a Parent Portal on your own device. They will only have access to an approved contacts list and you’ll be able to see all messages they send and receive and calls they make.
Troomi uses Samsung devices meaning you get the quality of a trusted brand. With their sleek design and touch screen, 7-year-olds can feel as though they are sporting the latest “adult” phone.
Why we like it:
We love that Troomi has embraced AI for text and content monitoring. You can set age-appropriate filters that will block inappropriate content and alert you if an attempt has been made to access it.
Parental controls: Built into the phone.
Key Features:
- Vetted apps
- Safe internet browser
- GPS tracking
- App screen limits
- AI monitoring
- Safelisted contacts
- Unlimited texting
Pros and Cons:
Their phones are powered by the trusty Samsung brand. You also have a choice of phone (Troomi Phone or Troomi Phone Pro, which has features like more internal memory, 5G rather than 4G connectivity, and a better camera.)
On the downside, their app list is limited so they won’t be able to access all the benefits of having a smartphone at a young age.
They also won’t have access to popular social media apps. That means that popular messaging apps like WhatsApp are out, as is the kid-friendly content on platforms like Instagram.
Plus, you have to purchase the Troomi plans. This means Family Plans from your current carrier are out.
Pricing: Troomi Phone: $149, Troomi Phone Pro: $199
Warranty: Standard manufacturer’s warranty, dependent on the specific phone’s manufacturer
Available plans: Plans range from $13.95 to $29.95 a month.
2. Pinwheel
Use it for: A kid-friendly operating system that can be used on a selection of phones and carriers.
Overview:
Pinwheel is a kid-friendly operating system that you can use with different types of phones and carriers.
You get to choose which Pinwheel phone you’d like to have, with some of the options being the more advanced Google Pixel 6a and the more affordable Slim 6 powered by Motorola. They come with the Pinwheel operating system installed.
The Pinwheel OS does not come with an Internet browser or social media, eliminating the risk of your 7 year old coming across inappropriate content online.
Instead, the OS comes with safe, helpful apps out of the box, such as a calculator, a flashlight, camera, and a vetted library of 1,000+ applications that you can add to your child’s device as needed.
Plus, parents get access to the Pinwheel Caregiver Portal where you can:
- Create a contact Safelist
- Monitor texts and calls
- Add or delete/restrict apps
- Manage screen time
- Track location
Pinwheel also caters to your child’s maturity level. As they’re ready for more exposure to the digital world, you can approve more apps for them to use.
Their app store is only available on your device and not on theirs. That means you’ll have the ultimate control over which apps get installed.
Why we like it:
We love the flexibility that Pinwheel offers.
You get to decide the phone and carrier, making it possible to put Pinwheel on a family plan. You can also choose how much digital content they have access to.
One key feature we love is the Focus Mode and scheduling. You can set specific times for different types of app access (e.g. educational apps during homework time, communication during after-school hours). This helps in creating a balanced routine for your child.
Parental controls: Built into the phone and managed through their Caregiver’s Portal.
Key Features:
- Pre-vetted apps
- Screentime management
- Text and call monitoring
- Safelist of contacts
- GPS and location monitoring
- Parental control removal prevention
Pros and Cons:
Pinwheel phones come with a selection of pre-vetted apps. This can be both a pro or con, depending on your household preference. While the list is constructed with their safety in mind, it can feel limiting, particularly as they get older.
The parental controls also come at a cost. You’ll have to pay a monthly subscription fee to have access to the Caregiver Portal.
Pricing:
- Genesis 1: $99
- Slim: $199
- Rugged 3: $249
- Plus (5G): $329
- Pixel 8A: $599
Available plans: Works with most major carriers
Warranty: Standard manufacturer’s warranty, dependent on the specific phone’s manufacturer.
3. Gabb Watch 3
Use it for: A simple and fun smartwatch with basic call and text.
Overview:
Although technically not a phone, the Gabb Watch 3 is a safe and reliable smartwatch designed specifically for kids aged 5-12.
Kids can stay connected with up to 100 parent-approved contacts through calls and texts, meaning they can reach you or other trusted family members anytime.
The Gabb Watch 3 even lets your kids easily dictate texts, making it convenient for you to read incoming messages.
This watch also features GPS tracking for real-time location updates, providing peace of mind about your child’s whereabouts.
It does not have internet access or social media, eliminating exposure to online risks.
Like most smartwatches, the Gabb Watch 3 includes kid-friendly features like step tracking, reminders, and a fun “swipe” interface, making it a perfect blend of safety and functionality for young users.
Why we like it:
We love the idea of a smartwatch for 7-year-olds instead of a phone. It lets you stay in touch with your child wherever they are, without exposing them to inappropriate content or social media.
Plus, since they wear it on their wrist, it’s less likely to be forgotten or damaged. The watch is also built with ultra-strong Gorilla Glass 3 and is water and dust resistant, so it can withstand everyday adventures.
The Gabb Watch 3 can also be very fun and stylish. Kids can personalize their watch bands (they can even get Star Wars themed bands), wallpapers, and themes.
Parental controls: You won’t need a parental control app for this watch as it does not come with apps or Internet browsers.
Key Features:
- Calls and texts with up to 100 parent-approved contacts
- Real-time GPS tracking
- Speech-to-text
- 1.4-inch display
- Ultra-strong Gorilla Glass 3
- Water and dust resistant
- Step tracking and reminders
- Compatible with Gabb OS
- Bluetooth Connectivity
Pros and Cons:
The biggest pro about the Gabb Watch 3 is that it’s simple yet fun—perfect for 7 year olds. You’ll get to stay in touch with them whenever you want, and they’ll get to personalize their device and make it their own.
Another pro is that you can easily buy it from your local Walmart or Amazon and you don’t have to go through extensive installation processes because it already comes without Internet browsers or apps.
But this can also be a con as it means no access to educational resources or other useful online tools.
Your 7 year old might also not like the fact that they got a watch instead of a phone.
Pricing:
The Gabb Watch 3 is free IF you buy one of their phone plans. These are the plans available:
- 2 year contract: $12.99/month
- 1 year contract: $14.99/month
- No contract: $17.99/month
If you don’t want these plans, the Gabb Watch 3 costs $149.99 on their official website.
Available plans: See above.
Warranty: Gabb offers their own warranty plan which is $4.99/month. This covers hardware service, accidental damages from handling, and technical support.
4. The Light Phone
Use it for: A minimalist phone (that somewhat mimics an iPhone) without distracting apps.
Overview:
Originally designed for adults who want to go on a digital-detox, the Light Phone would make a unique first phone for your 7 year old.
It only has the essentials: calls, texts, and a customizable list of “tools” like:
- An alarm
- A timer
- A calculator
- Directions
- A simple music player
- Notes / voice memo
- Calendar
- Podcasts
You can pick and choose which one you want your kids to have through the Light Phone’s dashboard website.
The phone does not come with Internet browsers, social media, games, or emails—just simple and safe communication. You will love the peace of mind it offers, knowing your kids won’t be exposed to online dangers.
There’s also a headphone jack, bluetooth, 5G connectivity, and it can be used as a personal hotspot (if needed).
The latest offering, the Light Phone III has some extra features such as a camera and a faster processor. But if you’re looking for a phone with optimal user experience, this may not be it. (It’s made to limit use rather than promote it.)
Why we like it:
The most unique thing about the Light Phone (and what we like most) is that it has an e-ink screen that does not emit blue light (unlike most LCD or LED screens).
The jury is out on whether blue light is harmful to all of us but research suggests that excess exposure could harm eye health, particularly in “light-sensitive populations” such as young children and older people.
The Light Phone is also very compact and portable and it can fit in your kid’s pocket or lunch bag.
Parental controls:
The Light Phone doesn’t come with any parental control features and you won’t be able to install a third-party app.
Key Features:
- Phone
- Text
- Voice to text
- Alarm
- Calculator
- QWERTY keyboard
- Flashlight
- Personal hotspot
- Bluetooth
- Headphone jack
Pros and Cons:
While the Light Phone is a good option when it comes to simplicity, that perk is also its potential downfall. Its connectivity and useability are unreliable and it can bug out occasionally.
Although it’s improved in the Light Phone III, the battery life is not great, adding to the potential unreliability. So, it’s not a perfect option when it comes to staying connected to your kids. We’d recommend it as training wheels but not for a long journey.
The Light Phone is also relatively expensive (starts from $300) for the very limited features it offers.
But it does come unlocked, meaning you can use it with any carrier or Sim card rather than being locked into their own phone plan.
Pricing:
- Light Phone II: $299
- Light Phone III: $799 (Pre-Order $399)
Warranty: The Light Phone can be returned within a year for manufacturer defects only.
Plans and contracts:
The Light Phone offers various service plans:
- $30 + tax / month (Unlimited calls and messages + 1 GB data)
- $45 + tax / month (Unlimited calls and messages + 5 GB data)
- $70 + tax / month (Unlimited calls, messages and data)
U.S. Light Phones come with a free SIM card. You can keep an existing number or get a new one.
The phone is unlocked so you can also use it with your current carrier.
5. Punkt MP02
Use it for: A minimalist, durable dumb phone with portable Internet connection.
Overview:
The Punkt MP02 is another minimalist phone similar to the Light Phone.
The phone supports calls and texts using the Signal protocol for encrypted messaging, which keeps your child’s interactions secure. It doesn’t have internet browsing or social media, so you don’t have to worry about distractions or inappropriate content.
The MP02 is built tough with a durable fiberglass body, making it perfect for kids who might be a bit rough with their devices. It has a personalizable interface and excellent audio quality, ensuring that your child can easily stay in touch with you.
It has a simple numbered keyboard (which looks like a calculator) and your kids will be limited to:
- Answering and making calls
- Receiving and sending texts
- Using the calendar, alarm clock, and notes
Punk MP02 does come with 4G LTE Internet connection which can be shared with a tablet or laptop. The Internet connection does not work on the phone itself.
The phone’s website says, “This two-device approach means that the Internet is something you dip into, rather than the other way round.”
Why we like it:
We like how Punkt doesn’t completely restrict Internet access, but allows your kids to use it on a nearby computer or tablet. This means if they need to do homework, quickly search up something, or use maps, they can do so.
We also like the privacy feature, Pigeon, which provides extra security for internet-based calls. This adds to the fact that dumb phones are intrinsically safer because you won’t be entering as much sensitive data into them (like bank details and private photos).
Plus, these phones make simplicity look good. Their product designer Jasper Morrison believes that “objects should never shout” — and he’s got that right with the straightforward design of the Punkt MP02.
Parental controls:
As Punkt MP02 is a dumb phone, you won’t be able to install additional parental control apps. But you can install a parental control app on the computer or tablet your kid will be using.
Key features:
- Voice calling through VoLTE (high speed data connectivity for voice calling)
- Text (9 numbered keys with predictive text)
- LTE connected Hotspot so that you can go online on other devices
- Bluetooth and USB connectability
- Privacy software (Pigeon)
- Unique ringtones designed by Norwegian sound artist Kjetil Røst Nilsen.
- Transflective LCD screen, which uses less power and is easier to see in bright sunlight.
- Alarm clock
- Calendar
- Notes
Pros and Cons:
This phone has really good sound quality, and considering that’s what its main function is, it delivers on its promises. It’s also really to navigate.
Punkt MP02 prides itself on the “two-device approach,” meaning that you can use your phone as a hotspot to get online on your tablet/laptop. This is both a pro and a con when it comes to parental controls.
While it means that your kids should be safe from harmful content on the internet while they’re on their phones, there’s no guarantee that they are safe when on other devices.
The keyboard is a con for some users — its 9 numbered buttons may be less favorable than the QWERTY keyboard of the Light Phone, for example. It also doesn’t have voice to text.
Pricing: $319.00
Warranty: Guaranteed against manufacturing defaults for two years from date of purchase, and will cover repair or replacement.
Plans and contracts: The Punkt MP02 is unlocked meaning, technically, you should be able to use it with any carrier. However, this hasn’t been the case for all users so it’s worth checking in with your network before you make the purchase.
6. TMobile REVVL 6
Use it for: An affordable Android phone with fast performance and the opportunity to add messaging apps and robust parental controls.
Overview:
The Revvl 6 is T-Mobile’s best phone for kids under the age of 12. It’s affordable, has a 6.5 inch HD+ display (great for playing games and watching movies and shows), and, with fast performance with its 5G connectivity.
The phone also has great battery life so your kids won’t be left stranded.
The Revvl 6 is powered by the Android operating system. That means they will have access to a web browser and useful apps, including:
- Messaging apps like WhatsApp and Messenger
- Educational apps that can help them learn new skills
- Robust parental controls
T-Mobile phones come with some pre-loaded apps, including T-Mobile Play and Scam Shield, but not too much that would slow the phone down.
Why we like it:
We love that this phone packs a punch for just $199. You can even get it for free with T-Mobile’s current promotion, provided you add a line to your current T-Mobile plan or trade in a qualifying phone.
It’s also a great educational tool for your kids. They’ll be able to use the Internet browser to access educational websites or download apps like Duolingo to learn a new language.
Parental controls:
Download Canopy through the Google Play Store to protect your kids while they are exploring the apps and internet browser on their new phone.
Key Features:
- Standard features of Android OS
- 5G connectivity
- 6.5 inch HD+ display
- Quad camera
- 33 hours talk time
- Memory can be expanded to 2 TB
- Fingerprint sensor
- Headphone jack
Pros and Cons:
The TMobile REVVL 6 is a smartphone, which is both a pro and a con for 7-year-olds. If this is the route you would like to go, this phone offers so much for the price.
With robust parental controls in place, you can give them a safe place to explore the digital world on this phone. However, if you would prefer that they stay disconnected for longer, a dumb phone is a better bet.
The REVVL 6 has a plastic backing which can make it heat up more quickly if used excessively. However, the build is more than solid enough to withstand everyday usage.
Pricing: $199 or “free” with T-Mobile promotion
Warranty: Lifetime limited warranty — you’re covered for any manufacturer defaults as long as you have your phone.
Plan availability: T-Mobile offers the Metro Flex Plus plan for new and existing customers that includes your 5G phone for “free”. Read the details here.
You can also opt to use this phone as part of a family plan.
7. Cat S22 Flip
Use it for: An ultra-rugged water and dustproof flip phone that will survive the playground and trip to the beach.
Overview:
The Cat S22 Flip is a touch-screen flip phone built by the makers of construction and mining equipment. It can survive dust, water, and drops, making it perfect for the daily schedule of an adventurous 7-year-old.
This is an Android-powered phone meaning it’s backed by a powerful operating system and gives you access to the Google Play Store. It has an internet browser and the option to download Android apps.
The Cat S22 has a sturdy clamshell design that teenagers may kick up a fuss about but 7-year-olds will likely be more than happy to flip open.
Inside, you’ll find a 2.8-inch main display. The external screen is 1.44-inch.
Why we like it:
The Cat S22 Flip is perfect for an active 7-year-old, whether that’s on the playground, swimming pool, or on the soccer field. We love that this phone can survive multiple drops and a few water submersions. It’s simple, durable, and gives them some smartphone features with 4G connectivity.
Parental controls:
Because it can access the Android Play Store, you can download Canopy for extra protection.
Key Features:
- Dust and water-resistant
- Large, easy-to-type buttons
- Touch screen
- LTE connectivity with T-Mobile
- Thermal imaging camera
- Outer display showing the date and time, incoming calls, and message notifications.
- Flashlight
- Front and rear-facing cameras
- Internet browser
- Access to Google Play Store to download apps
Pros and Cons:
The Cat S22 Flip is built for tough working environments and comes with crystal-clear sound quality.
But its core processor is not as powerful as the more expensive smartphones and downloading too many apps can slow it down.
Also, make sure that you download comprehensive parental controls as your kids will have access to a web browser, messaging and apps.
Pricing: $69.99
Warranty: 12-month warranty from date of purchase
Plan availability: Unlocked T-Mobile phone. If you’re with another carrier, you will have to check compatibility. Check compatibility with AT&T and CDMA networks like Verizon or Sprint.
Like flip phones? Read out full guide to flip phones for kids here.
8. Sunbeam F1
Use it for: A dumb phone without distracting apps and the option to choose basic modern features like navigation, music player, and picture messaging.
Overview:
The Sunbeam F1 is a “feature phone” — another name for a dumb phone. Depending on the model you choose, you can give your child access to some smart features, such as navigation and picture messaging.
It comes in several different models, each with its own toolset. You get to decide on a model that suits your child’s needs. For example, you get to choose if you would like your child to have a touch screen and picture messaging, or if you’d like them to have a minimalist talk and text phone with no other features.
Why we like it:
I like the philosophy behind this company’s mission. As a startup founded by Mennonites, Sunbeam has built their phones with a safer internet in mind. That means no internet browsers and no access to app stores.
You get to choose what features you want your child’s phone to have, giving you flexibility to choose their adventure.
Parental controls: You won’t be able to install additional parental control apps on a Sunbeam phone. This means you’ll have to be extra vigilant if they’re using it to access the internet.
Key Features:
- SMS
- Voice messaging
- Picture messaging
- Camera
- Music player
- Touch screen with QWERTY keyboard.
- Navigation using either Waze or Here.
- Hotspot
- Sound recorder
- Weather
Pros and Cons:
This basic flip is easy to navigate and, because it has no social media and internet access, is built to be safer than other devices.
However, some models can be used as a hotspot. This means that while you’re protecting your child from harmful content on their mobile phone, you may not be doing so on other devices that they use.
That means that it’s very important to put comprehensive parental controls on any other device they use.
Pricing: Depending on their capabilities, phones are priced between $249.00 to $329.00.
Warranty:
- Return for refund minus a $30 processing fee within 30 days of receiving the phone.
- The warranty lasts a year for manufacturing defects only. Phone can be exchanged for item of equal value. See their full policy here.
Plan availability: Unlocked but designed to work with Verizon.
9. Jitterbug Flip
Use it for: A phone with health and safety features built with the old and young in mind.
Overview:
The Jitterbug Flip 2 is marketed at seniors but is a solid choice for the youngest of phone users too. Lively makes the Jitterbug with health and safety in mind, making it particularly great for emergencies.
They have an Urgent Response button which will alert first responders in case of an emergency. The Lively Link app allows you to track their location and phone activity from your device.
Its easy-to-use push buttons and access to Amazon Alexa make this an easy phone to navigate when you’re just starting out.
Plans for the Jitterbug are only available through Lively which uses the Verizon network.
Why we like it:
We love their urgent response feature and that they have built-in health and safety measures in place. The company also offers excellent 24/7 customer support.
Parental controls:
You won’t be able to add additional parental controls to this phone. However, because it is built around the health and safety of its users, your kids do have access to a number of important safety features.
Key Features:
- Talk
- Speed dialing
- Amazon Alexa voice commands
- Text with readable screen and large buttons
- Basic camera
- Emergency response
- Magnifier
- Flashlight
- GPS tracking with access to the Lively Link app on your device
Pros and Cons:
Your child’s phone will be internet browser and app-free, which will help keep them safe but will not allow them the educational and social benefits these features provide. You also won’t be able to add additional parenteral control measures.
Family plans are out for the Jitterbug, unfortunately. However, Lively’s plans are very affordable.
Pricing: $79.99
Plans and contracts:
- Only available through Lively phone service (through Verizon)
- Plans start at $19.99 for unlimited talk and text
Warranty: 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
10. Easyfone Prime-A6
Use it for: Super affordable bare-bones big-button phone marketed at seniors (but also appropriate for young children!)
Overview:
The Easyfone Prime-A6 offers talk and texting, and very limited features like a flashlight, calculator, and MP3 player. It has no internet browser, no apps, and no camera.
This phone is only available on T-Mobile, MetroPCS, SpeedTalk, and Tello Mobile.
Its SOS button will trigger an alarm to alert neighbors in the event of an emergency, a feature that you can choose to disable.
Why we like it: You may not have this phone forever before it bugs out but, for the price, it may do the job as an introductory phone.
I also like the docking station which will allow you to put the phone in its “home” when it’s not being used.
Parental controls: You won’t be able to load additional parental controls on this phone — but the upside of the limited features is that the phone can do little harm.
Key Features:
- Calling with VoLTE
- Basic texting (no predictive text)
- Speed dial
- SOS button
- FM radio
- Notes
- Calculator
- Calendar
- Flashlight
- Charging dock
Pros and Cons:
If you’re looking for the most basic of dumb phones, this is an affordable option.
Be warned, though, the call quality is sub-standard and, without predictive texts, texting can also be quite difficult.
Pricing: $69.99
Plans and contracts:
- Unlocked for T-Mobile, MetroPCS, SpeedTalk and Tello Mobile.
- Not compatible with AT&T, Cricket or CDMA Networks (Verizon, Sprint, Boost Mobile)
Warranty: 12-month warranty for the phone and 6-month warranty for box accessories.
Mobile Phones for 7-Year-Olds – FAQs
Have more questions about giving your 7 year old a mobile phone? We answered them below:
What is the best first cell phone for a kid?
The best first cell phone for a kid is one that offers essential features without overwhelming them with too much functionality.
Here are our top picks for three different categories:
- Phone built for kids: Pinwheel
- Minimalist phone: The Light Phone
- Smartphone: TMobile REVVL 6
- Flip phones: Sunbeam F1
Is there a kids' phone with no internet?
Yes, there are phones designed specifically for kids that don’t have internet access.
The Light Phone ii is a great example. It only supports calls and texts, ensuring your child can reach you without the risks associated with internet access.
This feature helps you manage their screen time effectively and protects them from online dangers, allowing you to introduce them to mobile phones in a controlled manner.
Is there a phone to only talk and text?
Absolutely, smartwatches like Gabb Watch 3 or phones like Cat S22 Flip are ideal for kids who only need to talk and text.
They’re simple, reliable, and sturdy, making them perfect for young users.
By limiting functionality to basic communication, you can ensure your child stays connected without the distractions of apps and games. This also helps in teaching them responsible phone usage from an early age.
How much phone time should a 7-year-old have?
For a 7-year-old, experts recommend limiting phone time to about 1-2 hours per day.
This ensures they have ample time for other important activities like homework, outdoor play, and family interaction.
Setting clear boundaries helps in developing healthy screen habits and prevents dependency.
You can use parental controls to monitor and manage their usage, ensuring a balanced daily routine.
What is the right age to give your child a phone?
The right age to give your child a phone depends on their maturity and your family’s needs. Generally, ages 10-12 are considered appropriate for most kids to have their own phone.
However, if your 7-year-old needs a phone for safety reasons, such as staying in touch when they are away from home, a basic phone with limited features is suitable.
Assess their responsibility level and your family’s specific situation to make the best decision.
