Understanding the Impact of Smartphones on Children and Teens:  A Guide for Parents

October 20, 2024

We know that for many children a smartphone is a necessity, so they can communicate with their parents when away from home, use digital travel passes, access their school-related emails and homework… they’re ‘smart’ for a reason. In fact, in today’s digital age, smartphones have become an integral part of all our lives. 

While smartphones offer countless benefits—like access to information and the ability to connect with others—they also pose significant risks. For parents, particularly those dealing with challenging family dynamics, understanding these risks and monitoring smartphone usage is crucial. 

The Double-Edged Sword of Smartphones

Smartphones can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, they facilitate communication, educational opportunities, and social interaction. On the other hand, they expose young users to various dangers, including:

  1. Cyberbullying: Many children and teens experience bullying online. The anonymity provided by the internet can embolden bullies, leading to severe emotional and psychological distress for the victim.
  2. Inappropriate Content: With unrestricted access to the internet, children may stumble upon inappropriate content that could harm their development or expose them to dangerous ideologies.
  3. Online Predators: Children are often unaware of the potential dangers of interacting with strangers online. This lack of awareness can make them vulnerable to manipulation, exploitation, or even blackmail.
  4. Social Isolation: Paradoxically, while smartphones connect people, they can also lead to feelings of isolation. Excessive screen time can detract from face-to-face interactions with family and friends, which are essential for healthy emotional development.

The Importance of Monitoring Smartphone Usage

Given these risks, it is essential for parents to closely monitor their children’s smartphone usage. Here are some strategies to consider:

  1. Set Clear Guidelines: Establish rules about when and how long your child can use their smartphone. Consistency is key, so ensure that everyone in the household understands and adheres to these guidelines.
  2. Use Parental Controls: Most smartphones come with built-in parental controls that allow you to limit access to certain apps, set screen time limits, and monitor usage. Familiarise yourself with these tools and implement them to help keep your child safe. For android phones there is a free google app called ‘Family Link’ that lets you monitor and control usage, including blocking specific apps and websites as well as a tracker to see your child’s location. For iOS users Screen Time offers the same facilities.
  3. Understand the apps: Ensure you understand the apps your child is using or wants to use. Apps like Snapchat enable messages to ‘disappear’ which means there is no trace of what was said. Make sure you check the specific settings of each app to find out what you can control. For example you can block people from adding your child into a ‘group chat’ in Whatsapp which is beneficial so that they don’t end up in a group with people they do not know.
  4. Regular Check-Ins: Make it a habit to regularly check your child’s phone and make sure they are aware you will be doing it. This could involve looking at their apps, photos and videos, reviewing their messages, and discussing their online interactions together. Approach this with a mindset of care and concern rather than accusation. 

Open and Honest Communication

While monitoring is important, it should not be the only approach. Open and honest communication with your child is crucial for fostering trust and understanding. Here are some tips for discussing smartphone safety:

  1. Explain the Risks: Discuss the dangers associated with smartphone use, such as cyberbullying, contact with inappropriate individuals, and the potential for online harassment. Use age-appropriate language and examples to ensure your child understands.
  2. Encourage Questions: Create a safe space for your child to ask questions and express their concerns. This dialogue will help them feel supported and less isolated, making them more likely to come to you if they encounter problems online.
  3. Empower Them with Knowledge: Teach your child about online safety, including how to identify red flags in online interactions and what to do if they feel uncomfortable or threatened. Encourage them to trust their instincts and to come to you with any issues.
  4. Lead by Example: Model healthy smartphone usage yourself. Show your child how to balance screen time with other activities, like outdoor play, family time, or hobbies. Leave your phone in another room during dinner and other time spent together as a family. Take a family walk with no phones at all!

 

Smartphones can be a significant source of anxiety for parents as well as children, particularly those experiencing violence from their children. However, by understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to monitor usage while fostering open communication, parents can help their children navigate the digital world safely. Remember, it’s not just about restricting access; it’s about empowering your child to make wise choices and ensuring they know they can rely on you for support and guidance. Together, you can create a safer and healthier online environment.

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