Parents can save $30 on Bark smartphones for kids right now

As a parent of a school-aged child, I can't tell you how many times I've already Googled "what is the best age to give kids a smartphone?" But, I also know that my five-year-old isn't ready for an actual smartphone. That's where Bark comes in.

Bark has kid-friendly smartphones and watches that provide peace of mind for parents. The  Bark Phone is a smartphone built specifically for kids and teens with monitoring, content filtering and screen time management built into the device itself. But with many schools banning these devices, parents are turning to alternatives like a smart watch when it's acceptable.

Bark just upgraded the brand's durable, kid-friendly smart watch with features like fall detection, group messaging and health tracking. Plus, right now you can save $30 whether you choose a smart phone or a watch for your child at Bark.

Here's a look at Bark's kid-friendly phones and upgraded smart watch , and how to save $30 before heading back to school:

Save $30 at Bark

Save up to $30 on a Bark kid-friendly phone or watch with our exclusive code

Now through Monday, Aug. 31 , you can save up to $30 on Bark phones when you use our exclusive promo code on the deals below.

*Note: Our unique USA TODAY promo code will only apply to a maximum of two devices per family.

What smartphone plans are available at Bark?

Bark Phone Starter Plan

• $29 per month plan and $10 per month for the phone

• Best fit for younger kids (talk and text only, no apps or internet)

Most popular: Bark's Advanced Plan

• $49 per month plan and $10 per month for the phone

• Features advanced monitoring of content, apps, and communication

Save $30 on a Bark phone now

Not sure your child is ready for a smartphone? Here's what you need to know about the Bark watch

A child's first connected device doesn't have to mean a smartphone right away. For younger kids who need a way to reach family members but aren't quite ready for full smartphone access, Bark Watch offers a simpler option . It gives families a way to stay connected while helping children gradually build digital responsibility.

The Bark Watch just got upgraded, here's a look at what's new for families heading back-to-school:

• Built on the Samsung Galaxy Watch8 — sleek round face, Armor Aluminum casing

• Fall detection added alongside SOS

• Group texting and speech-to-text now supported

• Health app tracks steps, heart rate, and more, with the option to set target goals

• 8 band styles (silicone or nylon)

• Still no games, browsers, or social media — built for safe, focused communication

Save $30 on a Bark Watch now

How does Bark's payment plan work for purchasing a device?

Bark's payment structure is pretty straightforward, and mirrors what you'd see with major carriers. You pay off the phone over 24 months with zero interest, and once that's done, your monthly bill drops down to just the cost of the service plan. You aren't locked in, either—you can pay off the device early or cancel your service whenever you like. Just keep in mind that if you cancel after the 60-day return window, you'll still be responsible for the remaining balance on the phone. For a little extra protection, you can also add device insurance for $5 a month.

Why should you choose Bark?

More: Total Wireless launches a deal to get an iPhone 17e at no cost

Bark  is designed with families in mind, offering phone plans that combine reliable service with built-in parental controls. It's a great choice for parents who want peace of mind while giving their kids the freedom of having their own phone. Plans start at $29 per month with unlimited talk and text, plus access to Bark's award-winning monitoring app. Other highlights include:

• Parental controls included: Get  content monitoring , screen time management and location tracking built right into the plan.

• Unlimited talk and text: Every plan comes with unlimited talk and text, so kids can stay connected without surprise overages.

• No contract: Cancel anytime! There's no annual commitment required.

• Family-focused: Designed specifically for families, with tools to help kids  build healthy digital habits .

• Nationwide coverage: Reliable 4G LTE/5G coverage  across the U.S.

Get started with Bark today!

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Parents can save $30 on Bark smartphones for kids right now