Odido Launches "Start Slim": A Smart Start in the Digital World

Your 12-year-old wants Instagram, the neighbor’s kids are all on TikTok, but government guidelines recommend waiting until age 15. So how do you make the right decision for your child and your family? While children grow up in a world where being online is second nature, their parents are searching for guidance: how can you help your child grow up responsibly with technology? Digital tools certainly offer great opportunities, but they also come with challenges. That's why it’s crucial to teach kids digital skills from an early age.To support parents in this journey, Odido today launches Start Slim – a new platform offering practical tools to help parents and children explore the digital world together, step by step. From screen time tips to online safety advice and guidance on getting a first smartphone, the platform also includes two specially designed mobile plans that give children independence – within limits set by their parents. 

Conscious Phone Use
Smartphones and the internet have become an integral part of life. In the Netherlands, over 90% of 12-year-olds use a mobile phone¹. At the same time, awareness is growing among parents and experts that boundaries are needed when it comes to access to the online world. 

To help parents introduce children to the benefits of the internet and technology in a responsible way, Odido is launching Start Slim. 

This new platform provides a practical guide filled with tips and advice on screen time, online behavior, and digital risks. It gives parents concrete tools to start the conversation with their children in a way that fits their age and world. Odido has partnered with Internet Matters, a nonprofit organization committed to children’s digital safety and wellbeing. 

“Technology and connectivity are deeply embedded in our daily lives. That’s a wonderful thing, but it can also be a challenge for both parents and children. As a telecom provider, we believe we have an important role to play in supporting families at every stage – in a way that aligns with what parents find important,” says Tisha van Lammeren, CCO Mass Market. 

Start Slim is part of Odido’s broader commitment to encouraging conscious phone use. The company works with foundations like Join Us and MIND Us to strengthen young people’s mental resilience, launched the “Use Your Voice” campaign to combat loneliness, and introduced “The Little Phonebook” to encourage reading. With “Screen-Free Friday”, Odido and NOC*NSF challenge young people to go offline and get moving. 

Mobile plans that grow with you
Start Slim also offers two mobile plans tailored to different developmental stages – from a first smartwatch to a first smartphone. With age-appropriate features and smart settings, children gradually learn how to use a smartwatch, smartphone, and data – all while staying safe online. 

Mini is for children who are not yet ready for a smartphone. The kids’ smartwatch keeps children and parents connected – allowing messages to be sent and received in a safe, closed environment.
Junior gives teens more freedom with a smartphone subscription, but within clear boundaries. Default blocks² help prevent unexpected costs, while parents can manage the settings via the My Odido app. 

Both plans ensure children can always call their parents – even if they’ve used up their minutes – at no extra cost. This way, kids stay independently connected within limits defined by their parents. 

Van Lammeren adds: “As a parent, you want to make sure there’s still room for exercise, seeing friends, getting enough sleep, and healthy development – not just screen time. At the same time, you want to give your child increasing freedom, like going to sports practice alone or making plans online with friends – while staying involved. Start Slim supports that balance, and we’ll continue developing the platform in collaboration with experts and parents. So that digital life remains enjoyable – and in balance.” 

Availability
Start Slim is available starting today at odido.nl/kind. The informational platform is free and accessible to all parents in the Netherlands. The Mini and Junior subscriptions are available starting from €5.50 (including smartwatch) and €9.50 per month (SIM Only), respectively. 

About Internet Matters 
Internet Matters is an international non-profit organisation dedicated to the digital safety and wellbeing of children. Internet Matters supports parents and professionals with comprehensive resources and expert guidance to help them navigate the ever-changing world of child internet safety. The organisation partners with technology companies, educational institutions, and parents to assist children in being safe and positive online. 

¹ Source: Media Use Monitor 7–12 years
² For example, calls to premium-rate numbers (0900), international numbers, and roaming are blocked by default. Voicemail is disabled, and in-app purchases are restricted. Junior also comes with Extra Safe Online protection, guarding against phishing, viruses, and malware.