Giving your child a cellphone opens the door to a world of possibilities.
This guide was developed in collaboration with the Centre pour l’intelligence émotionnelle en ligne (CIEL), an organization recognized for its work with more than 100,000 young people, educators, and families. CIEL's expertise on digital and screen-related issues is widely recognized by public health authorities, governments, and the media.
Videotron is proud to partner with CIEL to help raise awareness among parents and children about the impact of the digital world. Together, through accessible, engaging, and research-based content, we aim to support as many families as possible in adopting informed and healthy digital habits.
Who this guide is for
This guide is designed for parents who are preparing to give their child a first cellphone. It is also intended for adults who would like practical tips to help prevent the risks associated with cellphone use and encourage healthy digital habits among young people. The information and activities included were developed for children aged 9 to 13, but the conversations they spark can be valuable regardless of a child's age.
Getting a first cellphone is a major milestone for any family. This guide is designed to support parents and children through this transition by fostering meaningful conversations, encouraging reflection, and promoting healthy digital habits.
You will find a guided conversation to help discuss the expectations and responsibilities that come with cellphone use, strategies for handling a variety of situations, and activities designed to help you establish clear, practical rules together that fit your family's reality. The guide also offers practical tips for setting up the phone and key apps to support a safe and balanced digital experience.
This guide gives you access to tutorials, articles, practical tools, and a wealth of additional resources.
Objectives
- Learn about the benefits and risks associated with cellphone use.
- Provide guidance and structure around the use of a first device.
- Foster open family dialogue about healthy, balanced digitals habits.
Background
According to children surveyed, 61% said they received a cellphone because their parents wanted to be able to call or text them.
However, a cellphone is much more than a simple means of communication. It serves as a gateway to a vast digital world that includes video streaming, online interactions, social media, and mobile gaming.
Just as we would before allowing a child to go to the park on their own, we need to make sure they are able to:
- Follow the park's rules and guidelines;
- Understand traffic signs and safety rules for getting there;
- Follow their parents' instructions and expectations for returning home;
- Recognize and anticipate the risks associated with playground equipment and activities;
- Tell the difference between a trusted adult and a stranger whose behaviour may be cause for concern.
The same approach applies when a child receives their first cellphone. Providing a phone also means helping them learn to navigate the digital world by recognizing potential risks, developing responsible habits, and following clear guidelines that promote their safety and well-being.
A cellphone provides access to:
- a digital environment with virtually no boundaries or limits;
- communications that are often private and invisible to parents and caregivers;
- inappropriate, harmful, or otherwise concerning content;
- the ability to connect with many people, including strangers.
As a parent, it is important to take the time to establish clear rules with your child. When introduced thoughtfully, a cellphone can become a tool that enhances safety, supports parent-child communication, and helps monitor a child's whereabouts, while also encouraging independence and responsibility.
First phone: where to begin?
Before giving your child their first cellphone, take some time to prepare for this important milestone. Choosing the right time, the right device, and the right plan, while setting clear expectations for how the phone will be used, can make all the difference. Explore the key considerations and practical steps to help guide your child toward safe, responsible digital independence.
Building healthy digital habits
A cellphone offers many opportunities, but it also comes with great responsibility. Help your child develop healthy digital habits with practical guidance on managing screen time, navigating online relationships, staying safe online, and understanding the importance of phone-free moments.
Getting the most out of a cellphone, safely
A cellphone can help children stay connected, learn new things, explore their interests, and build relationships. Discover how you can help your child make the most of these opportunities while learning to recognize potential risks and adopt safe, responsible online behaviours.
Create, play, and think critically
Photos, videos, games, social media, and online content: discover how to support your child in making the most of their phone's creative and entertainment potential while developing good habits around online safety, critical thinking, and responsible digital consumption.
Resources and support
Explore a selection of resources to help you better understand the digital world and access support whenever you need it.
Activities to do as a family
Turn ideas into action with our fun and educational activities designed to spark conversations, encourage critical thinking, and help your child develop healthy digital habits.
