Are Smartphones Hurting Our Children’s Future?

We live in an unequal society. Some children are born into families with more money, better schools, and more opportunities. Other families have had to fight through poverty and many barriers. This means some children start life with big advantages, while others do not. Today, many people believe that more access to internet devices like phones and iPads is a sign of progress. But I believe that for children, too much access to these devices may actually increase the gap between those who have advantages and those who do not. Technology has both good and bad sides. However, research shows that for young children and teenagers, mobile devices often cause more harm than good. This does not mean we must throw away all technology. It means parents need to understand the risks and guide their children carefully. Parents should know what their children are doing online and talk openly with them about it.

There are many risks linked to technology, such as addiction, exploitation, and even legal trouble if children share harmful content. I will focus on two main risks.

The first risk is exposure to content that is not suitable for children. On the internet, children can easily see videos, pictures, or read information that is meant for adults. Once a child sees something disturbing, it cannot be unseen. When a child watches television, like SABC, in the living room, adults are usually nearby. But a phone can be taken into a bedroom, where no adult is watching. The internet does not always stop children from seeing adult content.

The second risk is less obvious but very serious. When children spend many hours on screens, they miss important real-life experiences. They may miss chances to:

• Play and talk with friends

• Be bored (which helps develop creativity)

• Move their bodies and exercise (like climbing a tree)

• Sleep enough

• Take small risks and learn from mistakes

Children and teenagers who spend too much time on phones or iPads can miss out on learning important life skills. This can make it harder for them to succeed later in life.

In his book The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt explains research showing that children born after 1995 have experienced more mental health problems linked to mobile technology. He also describes different risks for girls and boys. Girls are often more affected by social media. Social media companies design their platforms to keep users online for long periods. Girls may compare themselves to others and experience online bullying or social pressure. This can harm their self-esteem. For boys, online gaming is often the main concern. Some boys may prefer the online world because it feels safer and more controlled. However, the more time they spend gaming, the less time they spend developing real-world social and emotional skills.

Some parents may feel frustrated reading this. Devices can make children quieter and easier to manage in the short term. A child using a phone may seem calm and well-behaved. But short-term peace can lead to long-term problems. Research shows that too much screen time is linked to more aggression in young children.

Other parents may feel worried and think they must remove all technology. That is not the answer either. Technology has benefits. It helps parents stay in contact with their children. It

allows children to connect with family who live far away. Some educational apps can support learning. The goal is not to remove technology completely, but to manage it wisely. Here are some suggestions for parents and schools:

Limit total screen time to no more than 2 hours per day (and much less for children under 5).

• Do not give children phones or iPads before age 14.

• No social media before age 16.

• Talk openly and regularly about technology use and online challenges.

• Be aware of your own phone use. Children notice when parents are distracted by screens.

• Put phones and iPads away early in the evening so children can sleep properly.

• Work together with other parents to set limits and support each other.

Technology is changing childhood for all children. By setting clear boundaries and staying involved, we can help our children grow in healthy ways.

If you need support with setting boundaries around screens or with any other parenting challenges, consider contacting Ububele. We can help you understand your child better and support you in your parenting journey.

Written by Rose Picas, Counselling psychologist