Children in 5th grade and up should be able to have a phone because when there is an emergency the parents can contact them or the child can contact emergency services, having a phone would also teach the child the importance of responsibility, and nowadays many phones are equipped with GPS and safety apps so you could track your child if needed.
Many children or tweens sometimes leave to go to places without noticing their parents, having a phone would allow the parent to track them anywhere they are. Apple IPhones have an app that is called Find My IPhone that allows the parent to track their child anywhere they are. Android users use an app called Android Device Management. (ADM) They can also call the child or text them.
Children need to learn about responsibility before they become a teenager because once they become a teenager it will be too late. Having a phone would teach a child responsibility because if you crack your phone then it will show you that you’re not responsible, but if you don’t crack your phone it shows that you are responsible because you can take care of important things.
In case of an emergency, parents can contact children. Whether via text or call. This is very important because the child can also call emergency services if in danger, or contact the parent. Help can also be called faster by carrying a portable phones.
In conclusion, what i’m trying to say is phones are very important to have at a young age so children can stay safe, learn responsibility, and learn what to do in case of an emergency.