50% of 5-9 year-olds have mobiles
Dramatic rise in number of children with their own mobile phone
Half of 5-9 year-olds own a mobile
As many as half of children between 5 and 9 years old own a mobile phone, according to a study by premium-rate regulator, PhonePay Plus.
The survey showed that the average age for children to get a mobile is 8 years, despite government guidelines warning that no child under 16 should own one for health reasons. For youngsters aged 7 to 15, the average number with a mobile rises to 75%.
Last year, the trend cost parents £374 million, with the average child's bill at £10.50 a month.
"Given the dramatic rise in the number of children with mobile phones, it's even more important for parents to understand how their children are using them," said Paul Whiteing of PhonePay Plus. "Parents need peace of mind knowing their child is safe and the bills won't give them a nasty surprise. You should spend time with your child explaining the basics about owning a mobile phone and paying for services such as ringtones or games."
An Ofcom study in October last year found that 18% of children aged 5-7 use a mobile phone at home, with 11% actually owning their own phone. In the 8-11 age group, 63% use a mobile phone at home, with 54% have their own.
Discuss this story
my little one isnt having a mobile phone until 13 the earliest. My 9 year old cousin for a mobile for xmas! I think its crazy!
Posted: 12/01/2010 09:55
i had my first at 14, mum didnt approve but i saved up and brought it myself! mine will wait until atleast 13!
Posted: 12/01/2010 22:50
Same here,and then it's PAYG.We thought about giving Harry one this year as he and Bridie walk to school by themselves now,but I just know they'd be up to no good with it. When I was a kid I'd have hated to have a mobile,for the simple reason your Mum can always check up on you
Posted: 12/01/2010 23:01
Both my kids (10 and 7) have mobiles  My son really has it because he walks to and from school himself and i like to check he is ok! Both of them really only use it to keep in touch with their dads (who dont live with me) and grandparents both here and in scotland. Never had any problems with either of them, other than my daughter the 7 year old) never has her charged!
Posted: 16/01/2010 12:30
Mine will not have one until at least 13-PAYG and it will be a birthday or xmas present-unless they save for 1. Safety I agree with,but majority of kids will use all credit textin mates!!!! I had my first mobile at 23 and I saved up for that!!!!! Mind you,think that was the year I first bought a TV!!!!!!!!
Posted: 22/01/2010 19:54
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