They are ubiquitous in modern-day life, so much so that it’s hard to believe personal computers, tablets and smartphones have only been around for about three decades.
And while there are many benefits to this aspect of technology, and the social media platforms that followed it, for kids, the cons may outweigh the pros.
In fact, there’s a movement to slow kids’ access to technology and social media, allowing them to be kids just a little bit longer.
The Movement
Locally and nationally, there are groups that provide resources and support for parents who are embracing the idea of becoming a tech-free or low-tech household, among them The Opt Out Family and Wait Until 8th, with the latter offering an online pledge for families.
The Opt Out Family reports that 80 percent of parents say their children aged 5 to 11 use a tablet, while 63 percent say their kids use smartphones. On average, 3 hours and 18 minutes per day are spent on tech devices by children under 14. Up to 71 percent of parents believe using smartphones might pose more harm than benefits.
Findings from Wait Until 8th support that train of thought, including:
Smartphones are changing childhood, with kids spending more time on the phone than playing outdoors, spending time with friends, reading books, and the like.
Smartphones are addictive, with new research showing dependence may produce some of the addictive brain responses akin to alcohol, drug, and gambling addictions.
Smartphones are an academic distraction, affecting the ability to manage time, projects, and homework.
Smartphones impair sleep, with a study showing that use relates to shorter total sleep time in children.
Smartphones increase the risk of anxiety and depression.
Smartphones put children at risk for cyberbullying.
What To Do
Both movements offer resources to support families in their journey to using less technology
Wait Until 8th encourages parents to sign their pledge with at least 10 other families from their child's grade and school. Once 10 families have signed, each family will receive the list of families who have made the commitment so that you can support and encourage each other. For families who want to provide their child with a way to stay in touch before 8th grade, Wait Until 8th offers a list of basic phones and smartwatches on their website.
Likewise, the Opt Out Family, which is based on the best-selling book of the same name, offers free, downloadable resources on its website, including a family pledge, "screen swap" ideas and exercises to detox your brain. They also provide links to key research, ideas and strategies to support your family's opt-out journey.
Whether by delaying smartphone use or opting for low-tech alternatives, these movements empower parents to reclaim their family's time and well-being.
RESOURCES
The Opt Out Family offers options as a family considers their approach to social media, screen time, and technology slowing.
Wait Until 8th is a movement that encourages parents to say no to smartphones for their children until the end of 8th grade.
