Holding Off on Smartphones – Why It Matters

Lately, there’s been growing discussion about the impact of smartphones on young people—and for good reason. Access to social media and the wider internet can open doors our children aren’t ready to walk through, exposing them to adult content, online predators, and pressures that can rob them of childhood far too soon.

I encourage you to consider a “dumb phone” (calls and texts only) if your child needs a device. This simple step limits distractions, reduces risk, and helps them stay present in the real world.

Groups like Wait Mate offer support for families choosing to delay smartphones, connecting you with other parents making the same decision. Together, we can protect our kids from the pitfalls of early digital exposure and give them more time to grow, mature, and build confidence before stepping into the online world.