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The Best Starter Phones for Kids
For younger children or first-time phone users, simplicity and safety are key. Starter phones for kids help families stay connected without exposing kids to distractions like social media or unrestricted internet access. These devices give parents peace of mind while teaching kids the basics of responsible phone use.
Key Features:
- Manageable size & strong build: The 6.1″ display is comfortable for smaller hands, and the device features premium materials, including Armor Aluminum and Gorilla Glass Victus+ for better durability.
- Smooth performance: With a 120 Hz refresh rate display, strong camera system (50 MP main), and full 5G connectivity, it handles apps, browsing, and streaming with ease.
- Parental-friendly controls & longevity: Runs on Android with Samsung’s software ecosystem; since it’s a flagship from 2022, it will receive several years of updates and offers built-in features for managing apps, screen time, and secure use.
Why It’s a Top Pick:
The Samsung Galaxy S22 5G hits a sweet spot for a kid’s first smartphone — small enough for ease of use, strong enough to last several years, and built with solid protections and parental-control potential in mind. It gives families the ability to start with full smartphone capability while still setting boundaries on usage.
Key Features:
- Large Display: 6.7″ FHD+ screen gives kids plenty of room for reading, games, and learning apps.
- All-Day Battery: 5,000 mAh battery keeps them connected through school, practice, and downtime.
- Affordable 5G Performance: Delivers fast speeds at a budget-friendly price.
- Simple Interface: Clean Android experience that’s easy for first-time users to navigate.
Why It’s a Top Pick:
The Motorola One 5G UW offers modern features without the premium price tag. Its combination of speed, battery life, and simplicity makes it a smart first smartphone for teens or responsible younger users.
Key Features:
- Clear Display: Sharp visuals that make videos and video calls enjoyable without eye strain.
- 5G Ready: Gives families access to Verizon’s reliable 5G coverage.
- User-Friendly Design: Straightforward Android interface helps kids learn phone basics safely.
- Safety Settings: Works with Verizon Smart Family for app blocking, screen-time limits, and location tracking
Why It’s a Top Pick:
The TCL 10 5G UW provides excellent value for families wanting reliable 5G performance in a simple, affordable package. It’s ideal for younger users who need essential features without extra complexity.
Each of these options can be paired with one of our Verizon plans, giving you flexibility to control data access, monitor usage, and adjust features as your child grows.
Best Smartphones for Tweens and Teens
As kids grow into their tween and teen years, their phones become more than just a way to reach home—they’re tools for learning, communication, and social interaction. At this stage, parents often look for smartphones that balance freedom with safety. The best kids phones include built-in monitoring tools, customizable parental controls, and the performance needed to keep up with daily use.
Key Features:
- Exceptional Battery Life: Up to three days of power on a single charge—ideal for busy school days and weekend activities.
- Durable Build: Designed to handle drops and everyday wear, perfect for kids who are tough on their devices.
- Family Link Compatibility: Works seamlessly with Google Family Link, allowing parents to manage app installs, set screen-time limits, and track location.
- Easy-to-Use Interface: Clean Android experience with minimal pre-installed apps, helping first-time users learn safely.
Why It’s a Top Pick:
The Motorola Moto G Power combines long-lasting battery life with dependable performance and built-in parental controls. It’s an ideal option for kids ready for more independence but who still benefit from oversight and structured screen time.
Key Features:
- Compact Design: 4.7″ Retina HD display that’s easy for smaller hands to hold and navigate.
- Powerful Performance: Runs on Apple’s A15 Bionic chip—the same processor used in iPhone 13—for smooth, reliable performance.
- Family Controls: Integrates seamlessly with Apple’s Family Sharing and Screen Time tools to manage apps, limit screen time, and monitor activity.
- Long-Term Support: Regular iOS updates and Apple’s strong privacy protections ensure the device stays secure and current for years.
Why It’s a Top Pick:
The iPhone SE (2022) offers premium Apple quality in a smaller, budget-friendly package. It’s a smart starter smartphone for teens, giving families powerful parental controls, excellent performance, and long-term value in one easy-to-manage device.
What to Consider When Choosing a Kid’s Phone
Before deciding which phone is best for your child, it helps to understand what makes a device truly kid-friendly. The right choice depends on your child’s age, maturity, and how you expect them to use the phone. A first-time user in grade school will have very different needs than a teen who’s managing schoolwork, social life, and part-time jobs.
Start by asking yourself how your child will use the phone—whether it’s primarily for communication, emergencies, or light entertainment. Younger kids often do best with basic phones for kids that allow parents to pre-approve contacts and control screen time. Older children may benefit from a smartphone that supports school apps, GPS tracking, and simple photo sharing, all within parental supervision tools like Verizon Smart Family, Apple Screen Time, or Google Family Link.
Safety should always come first. Look for phones that offer location tracking, app download restrictions, and time-limit settings to help create structure around device use. It’s also worth considering the phone’s durability, battery life, and how easily it integrates with your existing family plan. At Victra, we can walk you through Verizon phone plans and Verizon discounts to find the best match for your child’s needs and your budget—so you can focus on building healthy, connected habits from the very first call.
Safety Features Parents Should Look For
No matter which device you choose, the most important qualities of kid-safe phones center around control, privacy, and parental involvement. Built-in monitoring systems allow you to stay informed while teaching your child responsible phone habits. These features help ensure that kids enjoy the benefits of staying connected without unnecessary risks.
Start with parental control systems. Apple Screen Time, Google Family Link, and Verizon Smart Family each let parents set time limits, approve or block apps, and monitor usage remotely. These tools can also filter web content and prevent access to mature apps or social media platforms.
Location tracking is another valuable feature for families. Many devices now offer built-in GPS and geofencing alerts so parents can see where their child is and receive notifications when they arrive or leave specific locations.
Additionally, call and text monitoring tools can help limit communication to approved contacts only, reducing the risk of spam or unwanted messages. Combine that with app store restrictions and screen time limits, and you’ll create a safe, structured digital experience that grows with your child.
Our team can walk you through how these safety tools integrate with Verizon Phone Plans, including Smart Family add-ons and parental management options available directly through your account. For parents seeking the safest phones for kids, these features make all the difference.
Budget-Friendly and Durable Options
When buying a phone for a child, durability and value matter just as much as performance. Kids are still learning how to care for devices, so choosing a sturdy, affordable model—and pairing it with the right plan and protection—can save money and stress over time.
Many parents begin with mid-range phones that strike a balance between reliability and price, offering strong performance without the high cost of flagship devices. Their sturdy construction, water resistance, and long battery life make them practical everyday options for active kids.
Adding a protection plan is also smart. Cracked screens and accidental drops are common, and Victra offers device protection and insurance options that cover repair or replacement costs. For even greater value, families can explore Verizon Discounts on multi-line or trade-in plans—ideal when adding a child’s line to an existing account.
If your priority is a phone that can withstand everyday bumps while staying affordable, our specialists can help you compare devices and coverage options that meet both your child’s needs and your budget. It’s all part of ensuring your child’s first phone experience is safe, simple, and built to last.
Victra’s Recommendations for Parents
At Victra, we understand that choosing your child’s first phone is a big decision—one that goes beyond technical specs or pricing. Our goal is to help parents feel confident that they’ve found a device that supports both independence and safety. When you visit one of our stores or shop online, our team can walk you through kid-friendly models, explain parental control options, and help you activate a plan that fits your family’s lifestyle.
We also provide setup assistance to ensure your child’s phone is ready to use right out of the box, complete with screen time settings, app restrictions, and location sharing configured to your comfort level. Parents can also take advantage of insurance and device protection programs that cover accidental damage, theft, and loss—important peace of mind for younger users.
Beyond phones, we offer cases, screen protectors, and accessories designed for durability and ease of use. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your own device or add your child to an existing plan, our team is here to help you find the safest, most affordable solution. Start exploring on our Shop page or stop by your local Victra store to get personalized recommendations for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there phones designed specifically to be “text and call only” for kids?
Yes. Devices like the Gabb Phone 3 Pro and the Pinwheel Plus 2 are designed for kids who don’t need internet or app access. These phones focus on safety by allowing only essential functions like calling, texting, GPS location, and photo sharing with approved contacts. They’re ideal for younger children or families who want full control over connectivity.
Does Victra offer guidance on monitoring apps or tools for kids’ phones?
Absolutely. Our team can help parents understand and set up monitoring tools like Verizon Smart Family, Apple Screen Time, and Google Family Link. We’ll walk you through how to manage app access, set usage limits, and track your child’s location—all from your own device. If you prefer in-person help, our in-store experts can configure these settings for you during activation.
Is insurance or protection available for kids’ phones at Victra?
Yes. Because kids’ phones tend to experience more wear and tear, we strongly recommend adding insurance or protection coverage. Victra offers device protection plans through Verizon that cover cracked screens, water damage, and loss or theft. This ensures your child’s phone stays functional and protected—without unexpected replacement costs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best phone for kids means balancing connection, independence, and safety. The good news is that there are now more kid-safe phones than ever, ranging from basic starter devices to advanced smartphones with built-in parental controls.
At Victra, we make it simple for families to find the perfect fit. Whether you’re adding your child to your current plan, exploring protection options, or shopping for a first phone before the holidays, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Visit your nearest Victra store or browse our Shop page to explore the latest devices, Verizon Plans, and Verizon Discounts available for families. With the right phone and the right support, you can give your child the freedom to stay connected—safely and confidently—all year long.
is a skilled Web Developer and Designer. He builds and designs websites that focus on best UI/UX practices. Justin is also a Verizon Product Expert at Victra, helping customers with Verizon products and services. His mix of design, coding, product, and general knowledge makes him a valuable and knowledgeable team member.
