Answer
In this counseling answer:
•To assist your child with understanding your limits, you could inform him or her of the age you will agree to concede to the child having a mobile device.
•You could opt to allow your son or daughter to have access to a mobile phone on specific days during specific times under your supervision.
•I caution you to be mindful that your child feels left out and socially isolated from peers. He or she may seek alternative ways to use a mobile device, without your consent.
As-Salaam ‘Alaikum,
Your question surely sounds as if it comes from a place of concern as a parent. This is very commendable.
Surely, a loving parent will be concerned about a child’s activity of mobile or electronic devices. There are many dangers and unwanted outcomes to be aware of.
I recommend considering the reasons for your current limitations with a mobile device. For you, it may be solely due to the young age of your child. For you, this may be enough.
To assist your child with understanding your limits, you could inform him or her of the age you will agree to concede to the child having a mobile device.
Also, as a counselor and a parent, I’m also aware of the methods children and teens choose to socialize. It is much different than my own era! Mobile devices and electronics are key tools for social activity.
You could opt to allow your son or daughter to have access to a mobile phone on specific days during specific times under your supervision.
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In doing so, your child has the opportunity to interact with peers, to have something to look forward to, and feel inclusive with others. This also helps to reduce your concerns with distractions and other harms.
At the end of the day, the final decision will be yours. I caution you to be mindful that your child feels left out and socially isolated from peers.
He or she may seek alternative ways to use a mobile device, without your consent.
See if you can give your son or daughter limited options that respect your standard as a parent and their desire to interact in this technological age with peers.
May Allah (swt) reward you for your love and concern as a parent.
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Disclaimer: The conceptualization and recommendations stated in this response are very general and purely based on the limited information provided in the question. In no event shall AboutIslam, its counselors or employees be held liable for any damages that may arise from your decision in the use of our services.