Wait Until Eighth

Many doctors, psychologists, educators and parents are concerned about the use of IPads, computers and smart phones by young children.  At what age is it appropriate for a child to own a smart phone?  How much screen time is acceptable for children, and how much time and access should a child have?  Most people agree that children are spending too much time in front of a screen, too much time on social media, and too much time surfing the net or playing games.  An organization called "Wait Until 8th" has emerged.  Their goal is to educate parents in the proper use of technology, and delay ownership of smart phone until 8th grade (high school).

Thank you David for  sending me this informative article on why Silicon Valley executives are saying no to the smartphone for their children until at least age 14.  Children are often spending anywhere between 3-7 hours daily in front of a screen.  Many childhood essentials are pushed aside for online amusement.

Here are just some of the reasons parents should delay ownership of a smartphone for their children:  Smartphones are addictive.  Smartphones are like slot machines in your children's pocket, constantly persuading them to crave more.  Smartphones are an academic distraction.  Academic habits are established in elementary and middle school years.  Introducing a constant distraction with a smartphone is paving the way for academic mediocrity.  Smartphones impair sleep.  Studies show that the use of smartphones and other portable devices with screens affects the quantity and quality of sleep in children.  Smartphones interfere with relationships.  Children are often inattentive with the constant distraction the phone brings.  Face to face relationships suffer.  Additionally, smartphones put your child at risk for cyber bullying, may increase the risk for anxiety and depression, and expose children to sexual content.  Need I say more?  Weigh the risks and benefits of too much screen time for children and the risks of getting a smartphone before they have developed good academic and social skills.  You'll have a happier, healthier child.