Cost may be your deciding factor, as the Nano is the less expensive option of the two. You can purchase the 8GB iPod nano for approximately $135, and the 16GB iPod nano for $165 (scroll over/click images below for current pricing at Amazon).
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| 8GB iPod Nano |
The iPod touch, meanwhile, ranges from $210 for the 8GB model, to $275 for the 32GB model, to $365 for a 64GB version.
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| 32 GB iPod Touch |
Cost not withstanding, some of the other considerations you may want to take into account, when it comes to an iPod for your tween, will be the use of the device. While the iPod nano is less versatile than the iPod touch, this can be a great thing for a tween. Most parents can appreciate a tween's desire to listen to music, and there is nothing quite so great as being able to create custom playlists, and to organize one's music his own way. Nano is fantastic to this end. So is iPod touch. However, with tweens, it's good to limit the technology, to some degree. While iPod touch has additional use as an internet browser, and has lots of games, calculator and dictionary apps, movie viewers, and even ereader apps, this all can be very distracting to the tween.
Tweens can be very undisciplined and disorganized. I've raised several, and taught hundreds. Parents really need to be in charge of technological access, and the disorganized tween will not improve with unrestricted access to a multi-use device. As a parent, I prefer the Nano to the iPod touch, because my tweens can enjoy their music, and personalize their listening experiences, but don't cause me frustration in neglecting school work, and other responsibilities, as I feel they would if they had something more involved.
On the other hand, the older tween can make good use of the apps available for an iPod touch. If your tween has demonstrated self-control, and the ability to manage his or her time well, the iPod touch is a versatile tool. As a parent, if you decide to give your tween an iPod touch, be sure to continue supervising its use, and restrict the use of the iPod if grades slide, or chores are neglected.
Your tween will have his or her own preferences. However, parental determinations will be the final deciding factor. Emphasize responsibility, regardless, as an iPod is a significantly priced tool.
Read more about the various iPod choices, as they relate to tweens.
