Age-appropriate technology

When parents should give children cell phones & co. as gifts

A smartphone is at the top of many children's and young people's wish lists.(Bild: mandu77 - stock.adobe.com)

Whether it's a smartphone, tablet or games console: these days, children often want electronics under the Christmas tree. But which gifts are suitable for which age and what should be considered when buying?

According to the Austrian Retail Association, Austrians want to spend an average of 386 euros on gifts this year. The figure is slightly higher (423 euros) in Lower Austria and Burgenland and slightly lower (355 euros) in Styria and Carinthia. The traditionally most popular gift is and remains the gift voucher (42%), followed by "time together" (31%) and toys (29%), which today are often electronic or digital in nature and connected to the internet.

This often poses a challenge for parents - after all, you want to fulfill their wishes but still give gifts that are appropriate for children and their age. But when is your child ready for their first smartphone, apps or games console?