Having their own tablet can be exciting for children: playing games, reading books, getting creative or using educational apps. However, many parents ask themselves: when is it worth giving them their own device – and when is the family tablet enough?
A shared tablet makes sense in the early years. Your child can try out content while you accompany, explain and restrict what they see and do. One family device is often enough to gain initial experience with apps, videos or games and to reflect on media use together.
It makes sense for your child to have their own tablet if they want to use media independently on a regular basis, pursue their own interests or use learning apps that require personal accounts. For children from around 6 to 7 years of age, having their own device can be useful if you clearly regulate and supervise their use.
It’s not age that matters, but your child’s maturity: Can they follow rules? Do you know how to surf the net safely? Can it reflect on content and distinguish between games, learning, and entertainment? Only when these skills are in place is it worthwhile to purchase your own device.
A tablet for children should be robust, intuitive to use and not too expensive. Simple devices with a sturdy casing and a child-friendly interface are good entry-level options. Check whether educational apps, audio books or creative tools are useful and whether in-app purchases and advertising can be deactivated.
Whether it’s a family device or your own, set usage times, content, and rules together. Parental Controls, family accounts, and youth protection apps help to control media use. Discuss together: How long should your child be allowed to use the tablet? What content is permitted?
Having your own tablet can promote digital independence if you provide guidance: explain functions, try out learning apps together, and talk critically about advertising, algorithms and content. This will teach your child to use media consciously and reflectively.
Can’t find an answer to your question? Ask your personal questions about your child’s media use directly and conveniently using the messenger service via WhatsApp or Threema. You can find more information here.
