#SmartphoneFree

I have been reading a book recently about children using smartphones. If you are worried about the possible influence of smartphones on your child(ren), I highly recommend reading Jonathan Haidt’s book entitled ‘The Anxious Generation’.

I would not usually recommend reading material simply because I am reading it; however, the book struck several chords, one of which included the seriousness of adequately safeguarding our children in the digital world. The book is excellent as it is not judgemental of parents/carers; however, it calls for the giant companies to take better responsibility for safeguarding children. Jonathan highlights that children are accessing highly inappropriate content, and the constant use of social media has caused a children’s mental health crisis.

If you have not considered the impact of a smartphone on a child, then I would also encourage you to read the book. If you do not believe that the use of a smartphone can impact a child, I would still encourage you to read the book!

The book sets out four norms:

No smartphones before high school (Note: High school in America starts around 14 years of age)

Haidt suggests giving kids flip phones before high school so they can still stay connected for safety purposes.

No social media before 16

Haidt believes kids should get through the most vulnerable period of brain development before connecting them to social media.

Phone-free schools

Haidt recommends asking school officials for options like lockers for students' phones.

More independence, free play, and responsibility in the real world

Haidt emphasises the need for kids to play, whether it's in their backyard, at a local park, or on a school playground.

A grassroots UK Parent/Carer movement started earlier this year. To learn more about its work, visit its website at https://smartphonefreechildhood.co.uk/.

They have an Instagram handle and a WhatsApp Community.