Smartphone Free Childhood

Smartphones weren't designed with kids in mind – but they’ve reshaped childhood almost overnight. In the UK, 89% of 12-year-olds now own one, and so do a quarter of children aged 5 to 7. On average, kids get their first smartphone aged nine.

Instead of growing up slowly, children are being pulled into a digital world built to keep them hooked. The impact on their development, mental health and relationships runs deep – and we can’t afford to look away any longer.

There is increasing awareness around the impact smartphones can have on children’s health and wellbeing. As part of a group of local Kenilworth schools, Priors Field Primary School have been working closely with the organisation Smartphone Free Childhood to explore how we can support families in navigating this important issue.

 The Smartphone Free Childhood organisation explores both the positive and negative effects of smartphone use, and how we can work together to help our children thrive in a digital world.

There are many useful resources including:

• How do I talk to other parents about delaying smartphones without sounding judgemental?
• How should I talk to my children about smartphones? Tips for every age.
• Are smartphones really that bad for kids?
• How should I navigate sleepovers and playdates with kids who have smartphones?

For more information please take a look at the following website:

https://www.smartphonefreechildhood.org/?ref=dispatch.the-citizens.com