School survey: Over a third of parents chose a smartwatch phone as their child’s first phone – popularity has surged in just one year

DNA’s annual survey, conducted earlier this year, included 2,100 parents of children aged 5–16. The results show that the share of 7–9-year-olds using a personal smartphone has dropped significantly over the past year: 37% of children in this age group now have a smartphone, compared to 68% last year. At the same time, the share of smartwatch phones increased from 14% to 36%.

“While the results were expected, the speed of the change surprised us positively. Changes this rapid are rarely seen in mobile devices. The growing popularity of smartwatch phones is primarily driven by increased awareness among parents about these devices and the potential drawbacks of smartphones. The guidelines issued by the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) have certainly also reached parents who previously may not have considered smartwatch phones as an alternative,” says Jesse Kieksi, Head of Device Sales at DNA.

THL does not recommend smartphones at all for children under the age of 13. If a phone is purchased for a child aged 6–13, a device with limited functionality, such as calling and messaging, is recommended. DNA supports the national digital recommendations for children published by THL. (*

The transition phase before a personal smartphone is getting longer

More parents want to delay purchasing a personal smartphone for their child, and an increasing number of children under eight do not have a phone at all. According to the survey, the turning point is around the age of 10, as almost all children older than this already have a personal smartphone.

“According to the survey, parents who have not purchased a smartwatch phone for their child tend to view it as a temporary solution before a personal smartphone. However, the results suggest that this transition phase is becoming longer. Previously, smartphones were often purchased already at the age of 6–8, whereas now children may use a smartwatch phone until the age of 10 or even beyond. This means the development is moving in line with THL’s recommendations,” Kieksi summarises.

“A smartwatch phone offers largely the same benefits for which a smartphone used to be purchased for a child: the child feels safe knowing they can reach a parent when needed, while it also brings peace of mind to the parent,” Kieksi continues.

The most common reasons parents cited for purchasing a smartwatch phone were concerns about excessive smart device use, and the fact that smartwatch phones do not include internet access or apps. The third most common reason was the desire to protect children from inappropriate content.

Get to know the smartwatch phone from the child’s perspective

When a child receives a smartwatch phone, they are just as eager to start using it as with any other device. Kieksi encourages parents to take their time when introducing the device.

“Even though the child is excited, the parent should first familiarise themselves with the device calmly. It’s important to set up the device carefully and configure the settings, such as approved contacts. It’s also useful to understand what using the smartwatch phone looks like from the child’s perspective,” he says.

Jesse Kieksi’s tips for choosing a smartwatch phone:

• Visit a physical retail store to explore the devices hands-on. Differences such as screen size and the feel of the wristband are easier to assess than from online images.
• Take time to familiarise yourself with the device first. Learn what the interface looks like for the child and test its functionality, such as taking photos and answering calls, and what the child can do with it.
• Practise using the smartwatch phone together with your child at the beginning. Agree on shared rules, such as when the device should be worn, which contacts are allowed, and what to do if the battery runs out.

DNA has conducted its School Survey since 2011. The annual survey aims to explore parents’ views on children’s phone purchases and usage. This year’s survey was carried out in Norstat’s online panel between 17–24 February 2026, with 2,100 parents of children aged 5–16 responding.

*) THL national recommendations for the leisure-time use of digital devices for children aged 0–13

Further information for media:

DNA Corporate Communications, tel. +358 44 044 8000, communications@dna.fi