Great products that I highly recommend
I reach out to every brand that I mention in my writing and speaking. Some offer affiliate links and promo codes. I share them all here.
Phones
Gabb Phones
Gabb is one of my top picks for parent-managed phones for kids. Gabb allows you all of the controls including the ability to monitor texts and fully turn off group chats. Gabb has plans that increase access to apps over time but this device has no way to get to the internet.
Use Promo code: DIGITALMOM for a special discount!
The Pinwheel Phone
Pinwheel is another great option for parent-managed phones. Similar to Gabb, Pinwheel allows you all of the controls including the ability to monitor texts and fully turn off group chats. Pinwheel only has one plan through which parents can control access to apps and has no way to get to the internet. Pinwheel has better access to music through Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon.
The Wisephone
If you are looking for a true dumbphone, I recommend the Wisephone. Its super cool looking and only allows your kid access to phone, text and Maps/Navigation. This one is very popular with the Gen Z Kids as a second phone when they want to leave the internet and constant distractions of a smartphone behind.
Promo Code: DIGITALMOM for $50 OFF the WisePhone II Pre-order.
The Bark Phone & App
Bark is the best known in the world of parent-managed phones for kids. Bark phones allow you to start your child off with a very locked down device and overtime graduate them to a smartphone. They won 2023 Best Invention from TIME Magazine.
Bark has many other parent products including a separate monitoring app that can be used to monitor content in Instagram & TikTok as well as many video games like Rolox…so long as you’re using it with an Android (sorry Apple people, iOs does not play well with Parental Control Apps).
Not Phones
Starglow Media Subscription
I love audio as an alternative to screen time. Happily there are some pretty high quality podcasts out there for kids. Some of my favorites are Kid Nuz, Who Smarted and their Sleep Series.
TFDM subscribers can use PROMO CODE: DIGITALMOM at check out for 50% off an annual Subscription.
The Mighty
The Mighty is not a phone but it is a handy music solution. If you are interested in a portable standalone music player— think the Shuffle, the Mighty might be perfect for you. Its a great companion device for parents to give kids if they are opting for very low tech/locked down phones.