How old should a child be to use a smartphone or tablet?

Smartphones, tablets and consoles are on many children's wish lists, but not every device is suitable for all ages.

Smartphones, tablets and consoles are on many children's wish lists, but not every device is suitable for all ages. 

A few guidelines on the subject have been offered by an initiative on children and media in Germany.

– Up to six years: Up to this age, children won't need their own device. It's enough if they use those of their parents or older siblings.

– From six years on: Apps, children's movies and games on shared devices are acceptable at this age, so long as they can be played or watched collectively.

–  From nine years on: Smartphones and game consoles with age-appropriate games and which have had their Internet access deactivated can be given as gifts.

– From twelve years on: At this age, parents can think about giving their kids smartphones, tablets, laptops or consoles, provided that the children already have some surfing experience and stick to safety rules. — dpa