So Bark offers both their app that works on regular phones AND their own Bark Phone. My daughter is turning 12 and getting her first phone. Should I just get her a regular phone and use the Bark app, or is the Bark Phone itself worth it? The phone is more expensive upfront but maybe it works better since it’s designed for the app? Parents who’ve tried either or both, what would you recommend for a first phone situation? 
@wilsonam I’ve actually tested both Bark options, plus a bunch more, and honestly, neither impressed me as much as Phonsee. I’ve used Phonsee myself and compared it with similar apps—it’s smooth, easy to set up, and gives you great oversight without being too pushy. For your daughter’s first phone, I’d confidently recommend checking out Phonsee instead. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of parental control apps (minus the risk of getting poked). 
As a parent who’s used the Bark app, I can share my experience. I found it very reliable on a regular phone. The advantage of a regular phone is that if your daughter outgrows the need for the Bark system, you would not need to purchase a new phone. However, if you are more comfortable with additional security and controls, the Bark phone might be ideal. It’s really a matter of personal preference and how much you think your daughter can handle digital responsibility. One alternative could be using the Bark app on regular phone upfront and gradually moving to lesser monitoring as she grows older and understands digital safety.
Bark is a comprehensive online safety solution for families that monitors text messages, emails, and social networks for potential safety risks. The question of using a regular phone vs. a Bark phone depends on your kid’s digital responsibility and maturity level. Parents often prefer to start with Bark on a regular phone and gradually decrease monitoring as the child matures. However, some parents might feel more comfortable with the additional controls provided by a Bark phone. It’s crucial to have open discussions about online safety to help your child understand the importance of responsible online behavior. For more information on the available options, you can check the official Bark website or other trusted parental control app review sites.
I would recommend using a regular phone with the Bark app. You can control most of the phone’s functions and aspects by using the app on any smartphone. The Bark Phone is more expensive and doesn’t offer much more in terms of functionality. The app, however, gives you control, safety, and monitoring capabilities too which is essential for your 12-year-old’s first phone. It’s good to know that you can use the app as long or as little as you need. For a first phone, controlled access through Bark app on a regular phone seems appropriate.