My Teens First Phone – Part 2/2

Azahar Sulaiman

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March 26, 2025

Carrie Rogers-Whitehead
Founder, Digital Respons-Ability | Author| Library Consultant | Public Speaker

It’s been about 6-7 months since my thirteen year old got his first phone. While the time seemed short to me as a parent a lot has happened to him since that day! He’s grown taller, started middle school and the phone has been integrated into our day to day.

Table of Contents

Why The Phone Has Been A Plus

I’ve appreciated the phone, partly for selfish reasons! Before the phone I felt he was responsible to be left home alone for short periods. But like many households, we don’t have a landline and there wasn’t a way for him to communicate if something happened. The cell phone brings me some peace of mind that I hadn’t before.

hand over devices to your kids guilt free (11) 1

Family & Friends: Staying Connected

Some other positives of the phone have been greater communication with family. He texts grandparents and cousins fairly regularly. I’m no longer the go-between to set these conversations up. He’s also found it easier to get together with friends. This past week the phone was essential to arrange a last-minute nerf gun battle war at the house!

Lessons Learned & Looking Ahead

With him only 13 we aren’t ready to make big changes to rules, but I’ve been happy with what I’ve been seeing so far over this half a year. I know there will be issues in the future, but it’s been a good start to our first phone!

Technology & Parenting: More Insights in Technology for Littles

As parents, we’re all figuring out how to navigate technology with our kids. If you’re looking for more guidance on introducing technology in a healthy, responsible way, I highly recommend checking out Technology for Littles. This upcoming book is full of valuable insights for parents raising digital-age children. You can pre-order it now on Amazon here: Technology for Littles.

Technology is here to stay, and it’s up to us as parents to guide our kids in using it responsibly. Here’s to learning and growing together!

This article was written by Carrie Rogers-Whitehead, founder of Digital Respons-Ability. Digital Respons-Ability is a mission-driven organization dedicated to promoting digital citizenship and responsible technology use. We have educated tens of thousands of parents, students, and educators through online courses and in-depth workshops. Our hands-on experience informs our work with the US federal government, states, and nonprofits, providing professional development and consulting on digital citizenship.

Learn how Carrots&Cake can support your child in developing healthy screen time habits here.

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Azahar Sulaiman

Azahar brings a dynamic blend of global experience and a passion for education to his role at Carrots&Cake, where he is dedicated to promoting healthier digital habits among children. With an academic background in Management, specializing in Hospitality and Tourism, and extensive experience in marketing and communications, Azahar expertly bridges strategic thinking with a genuine commitment to family well-being.

Having studied and worked in France for several years, Azahar developed a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and global education systems. His leadership roles—ranging from managing talent acquisition to spearheading student associations—demonstrate his ability to connect with others and inspire positive change. These qualities translate seamlessly into his efforts at Carrots&Cake, where he leverages his insights to create impactful strategies for digital parenting.

A strong advocate for balanced living, Azahar draws from his personal journey and professional expertise to support parents in fostering healthy screen time habits for their children. His unique blend of cultural fluency, educational insight, and unwavering dedication makes him a trusted ally for families navigating the challenges of modern parenting.

Through his work at Carrots&Cake, Azahar is not just addressing screen time issues—he’s empowering families to embrace technology with confidence and mindfulness, ensuring a brighter, healthier future for children everywhere.

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