As a parent and technology industry analyst, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to navigate the ever-changing landscape of cell phones and plans for kids. With so many options, features, and price points to consider, analysis paralysis is real.
If you‘re considering getting your child a phone through Verizon, the largest wireless carrier in the U.S., you‘ve come to the right place. I‘ve done the research and analyzed all the data to bring you this comprehensive guide with everything you need to know to make an informed decision. Let‘s dive in!
Verizon Phone Options for Kids
Basic Phones
Verizon offers a handful of basic phone models well-suited as starter devices for kids. These no-frills flip and bar style phones are simple, durable, and affordable. Prices range from $49.99 for the Orbic Journey V up to $149.99 for the rugged Kyocera Dura XV Extreme.
A basic phone is an excellent choice for kids who mainly need a way to stay in touch with family without internet access or smartphone features. However, the overall selection is limited compared to a few years ago as basic phones have dramatically declined in popularity.
Budget Smartphones
For tweens and teens ready to make the jump to a smartphone, Verizon has a decent selection of wallet-friendly options starting under $200. Some current models to consider include:
| Model | Display | Storage | Battery | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy A03s | 6.5" HD+ | 32GB | 5,000 mAh | $129.99 |
| TCL 30 V 5G | 6.67" FHD+ | 128GB | 4,500 mAh | $199.99 |
| Orbic Magic 5G | 6.78" HD+ | 64GB | 5,000 mAh | $149.99 |
These devices offer a good balance of features and performance for first-time smartphone users. However, budget phones often receive fewer software updates over time compared to flagship models.
Smartwatches
For parents seeking a smartphone alternative, Verizon offers the GizmoWatch 2, a wearable designed for kids ages 3-11. This 4G LTE connected watch allows calling, messaging, and GPS tracking controlled by a parent app. Other key features include:
- Durable, waterproof design with colorful bands
- Trusted contact list for up to 10 caregivers
- Reminders, to-do lists, and fun incentives
- School time and quiet modes to limit distractions
The GizmoWatch 2 is priced at $99.99 retail or $4.16/month for 24 months with 0% APR financing. It requires a data plan, which starts at $10/month when added to an existing smartphone plan.
While smartwatches provide communication and tracking without internet access, they have significant limitations compared to phones. Battery life is often short, requiring frequent charging. The small screen size also makes messaging more difficult.
Kids Phone Plan Pricing
Once you‘ve selected a device, you‘ll need to choose a Verizon plan. Unlike AT&T and T-Mobile, Verizon does not currently offer a kid-specific plan. However, adding a line to an existing unlimited plan is affordable:
| Plan | Line Cost | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 5G Start | $35/line | Unlimited talk, text & data; 5G Nationwide |
| 5G Play More | $45/line | 5G Ultra Wideband; 25 GB premium data; Disney+, Hulu & ESPN+ included |
| 5G Do More | $45/line | 5G Ultra Wideband; 50 GB premium data; 600 GB cloud storage |
| 5G Get More | $55/line | 5G Ultra Wideband; Unlimited premium data; Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, Apple Music & 600 GB cloud |
Taxes and fees are additional. Autopay and paperless billing discounts of $10/line may apply. Pricing as of January 2023.
Verizon also offers a Just Kids add-on to unlimited plans for $50/month if multiple children will be on the account. Just Kids includes 5GB data, unlimited talk & text to 20 contacts, and Verizon Smart Family Premium parental controls.
Verizon Smart Family
All Verizon plans include the Smart Family service for free to help parents monitor kids‘ online activities. The app allows you to:
- Manage screen time with custom schedules
- Set content filters
- Track location with alerts
- View activity reports
Smart Family Premium, regularly $9.99/month, is included at no extra cost with Verizon‘s Just Kids plan. Premium features include location alerts, a 30-day activity summary, and the ability to instantly lock a child‘s phone.
To get started, download the Smart Family app on your mobile device, then log in with your Verizon credentials. You can then create a profile for each child and configure rules and restrictions.
While robust, some parents report Smart Family can be glitchy, especially on iOS devices. Setup is also a bit tedious. I recommend thoroughly testing all features before relying on them completely.
Verizon Support & Customer Service
If you encounter issues with a Verizon kids phone or plan, there are a few ways to get help:
- Contact customer support via phone, chat, or in-store
- Browse online device simulators and user guides
- Visit Verizon‘s online parent portal with how-tos and advice
In my experience, Verizon‘s customer service is generally good but wait times can be long during peak hours. Having proof of purchase and device specifics like the IMEI number handy can expedite troubleshooting.
Alternatives to Verizon
If you‘re open to options beyond Verizon, here‘s a quick comparison of what other major U.S. carriers offer for kids:
AT&T
- AT&T Secure Family app with parental controls for $7.99/month
- No dedicated kids plan, but discounted additional lines available
T-Mobile
- FamilyMode app with device management for $10/month
- SyncUP Kids Watch with GPS tracking and virtual fencing for $174
- 2 GB kid plan for $10/month with autopay
US Cellular
- ChildControl app with content filtering and location tracking for free
- No kid-specific plan or devices
You might also consider Troomi, Gabb Wireless, or Pinwheel which specialize in kid-safe smartphones with tiered parental controls. Plans for these devices start at $14.99-19.99/month but require purchasing a proprietary device upfront.
Predictions for the Future
As technology continues to advance at breakneck speeds, so will the ways kids interact with devices. Some key trends I‘m tracking:
- More wearables – Smartwatches and other wrist-worn devices will gain popularity as phone alternatives for younger children
- Expanded parental controls – Expect native tools built into operating systems and hardware to give parents more granular options
- AI monitoring – The power of machine learning will help filter concerning content and alert parents to worrisome behaviors
- Focus on digital wellness – Carriers and manufacturers will expand tools to promote healthy device usage and limit screen time
Of course, the most important line of defense will always be engaged parenting. Open communication, clear expectations, and leading by example are key to raising tech-savvy kids.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right phone and plan for your child is a highly personal decision that depends on your unique needs and circumstances. There are undoubtedly many great options from Verizon:
- Basic phones offer simple talk and text at low prices
- Budget smartphones broaden functionality with apps and internet access
- The GizmoWatch 2 enables communication and GPS tracking in a kid-friendly wearable
- Unlimited plans allow affordable additional lines
- Smart Family tools help parents monitor activity
No matter what you select, thoroughly research the details, read reviews, and don‘t hesitate to reach out to Verizon support with questions. Most importantly, maintain an open dialogue with your kid about responsible phone use. You‘ve got this!
