Your Child Has a Phone (Under 13). Is it Too Late? Discover God's Game-Changing Plan for Digital Discipleship.

Familyguide

A recent research paper advises parents against providing smartphones to children under the age of 13. However, for families where children already possess these devices, a key question arises: what steps can be taken?

Tara Thiagarajan, a co-author of the study, explained to ABC News in an emailed statement that “The younger the child gets a smartphone, the more exposure to all this impacts them psychologically and shapes the way they think and view the world.”

Published in the Journal of Human Development and Capabilities, the research indicated that acquiring a smartphone at a young age correlated with diminished self-image and self-worth. Specifically, girls experienced reduced confidence and emotional resilience, while boys showed lower levels of empathy. Furthermore, the use of smartphones by children under 13 was associated with an increased risk of suicidal ideation.

To mitigate these potential negative impacts on young people, the study's researchers suggested that cellphones should not be introduced to children before they turn 13.

However, for numerous parents, this data arrives after their children have already been given phones. Consequently, how can you ensure your child's safety if they are already using a cellphone?

Alisha Simpson-Watt, founder of Collaborative ABA Services, advised Parents magazine to “Routinely monitor your child’s activity, including apps, messages, and screen time.” She also stressed the importance of parents engaging in candid discussions with their children regarding appropriate phone usage.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Jerry Bubrick echoed this sentiment, explaining to the Child Mind Institute, “You’re training your kids to make good decisions over time, so that eventually, when they leave you, you can trust that they will make those good decisions on their own.”

Furthermore, leveraging the built-in parental control features on many smartphones is beneficial. These tools allow for restricting access to unsuitable applications or videos and establishing firm screen time boundaries.

Some specialists suggested that while a child may have a phone, they should be prevented from using social media platforms.

Dr. Monica Barreto, Clinical Director of Behavioral Health, FL Primary Care at Nemours Children's Health, shared with Parents that “Many social media platforms are not recommended for kids under the age of 13. Even those over 13 may need parental guidance.”

Barreto elaborated that by preventing children—particularly young girls—from accessing social media, parents can help them steer clear of detrimental sentiments such as diminished self-confidence, body image concerns, and unhelpful social comparisons.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DMyY2tGhTf6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Although the research indicated a lower risk for children introduced to smartphones after age 13, Dr. Ariana Hoet, Executive Clinical Director at the Kids Mental Health Foundation, underscored the importance of parents relying on their intuition.

She stated, “Some children may still be at high risk at 13 years old.” Hoet added, “Even after a child is over 13 years old, parents should continue to have conversations, check-ins, and monitor their use.”

In conclusion, despite this recent study highlighting the increased risks for children under 13 owning smartphones, responsible usage at a younger age is still achievable when parents remain vigilant and actively engaged.