Why I recommend this Android phone for kids over a cheap Samsung or Motorola model [Video]

Second grade feels too young to get a smartphone, yet my second-grader welcomes the idea with open arms. While she loves her Fitbit Ace LTE for communication and play, a phone gives her a sense of freedom that a heavily controlled wearable can’t. 

Also: I tried an ultra-thin iPhone case, and here’s how my daunting experience went

I tested a kids’ smartphone from Pinwheel with her to give the idea a shot. Pinwheel phones are inexpensive Android phones with a subscription that gives parents control and ways to limit distractions. They exclude social media apps and web browsers to prevent exposure to inappropriate content and give adults management options for contacts and communication.

Getting the Pinwheel phone set up was challenging, as it arrived without a SIM card. There were some mishaps in setting up a review unit of this device that wouldn’t have happened if I were a regular customer. However, it’s worth noting that Pinwheel isn’t …