Did you hear that the majority of kids are getting their first phone at 12 years old, and some are as young as six!? Chances are that you may have already starting about this inevitability, and if you’re approaching that time with a little one of your own, this is for you!

Here are four amazingly simple – but crucial – things to consider when investing in that first mobile for your child:

Use a checklist

The market has changed a lot in the last decade or so, meaning there are more players in the telco space than ever before, with each offering something slightly different. Just like you tell your kids every night – do your homework!

Find out just what you need by starting with a checklist and then research the best options available to avoid unnecessary and hidden costs (e.g. credit card fees, international calls, plan change fees, early termination fees or unlocking your phone).
Look for a plan that offers the basic essential items like unlimited talk and text to avoid excessive fees and bill shock and most importantly ensure that your child can reach you at all times.

Don’t lock yourself in

If you want to avoid hidden fees, then you should really look for a no lock-in contract. You could also consider the option of buying the phone outright and using a prepaid SIM-only mobile plan. There is a great range of affordable smartphones and excellent value SIM-only plans.

Maintain control

Staying in control of your – and your child’s – spending is key when it comes to mobile devices. So remember to check if the provider sends alerts about approaching or exceeding limits, and whether you can monitor your child’s usage closely, track itemised billing, real-time usage and recharge history.

A fantastic feature to look for is the option to switch plans whenever you need. This allows you to then move between plans when you might need more data inclusions further down the track.

Don’t forget the question of data

Your kids are probably keen to explore the internet, however giving them unlimited access in a mobile setting might be a scary thought. You can choose plans with as little as 1GB which is perfectly fine for a bit of surfing, while encouraging greater usage on a desktop or tablet in the home setting.

Also think about switching off certain services that may cost extra, such as premium SMS and Multimedia Messaging Service (sending messages that include photos and videos) and of course, international roaming.

amaysim’s $10 Unlimited plan is a prime example of a good choice for kids, awarded Best Value Prepaid Mobile Plan by Money Magazine. The plan features 1GB of data and unlimited talk & text and comes with no lock-in contract. It’s also been hugely popular, with over 120,000 Aussies joining amaysim over the past 90 days alone!

Moving your child into the mobile world is a big decision but with a bit of background digging and savvy decision making, you can have true peace of mind – and isn’t that what every Mum wants?

Happy mobile plan hunting!

Do your kids have a mobile phone? What are your tips to control their usage? Tell us in the comments below.