When is the right time? Navigating smartphone use with children

When is the right time to give your child a smart phone.  

This is a question a lot of parents ask themselves and something that has been widely debated amongst researchers, health practitioners, educators and politicians. Research now shows us that children under the age of 13 with access to their own smart phone with social medica can show higher rates of mental health difficulties and negative behavioural changes.   

Even with a greater understanding of the effects of smartphones on children and social media restrictions coming into place in Australia, delaying your child’s access to a smart phone and social media can be easier said than done, especially when your child feels like they are the only one without one.  

In this episode host Nadia Rossi speaks with Dany Elachi, founder of the Heads Up Alliance, a grass roots organisation supporting parents who want to delay smart phones and social media for their children.  

Dany talks about complex issue of smart phone use in our children and young people and how building a supportive community can help parents navigate some of the challenges. 

In this episode you will hear:

• Dany shares what led to his family’s decision to delay smart phones and start The Heads Up Alliance [00:9:39].
•  Dany explains ways to speak with your children about delaying smart phones and social media  and the benefits he has seen in his own family [00:20:06]. 
• Dany shares the main recommendations from The Heads Up Alliance [00:29:00].
• Dany’s recommendations on managing smartphone use once your children have access [00:37:00].

Further information and resources

Screen time: Finding a healthy balance for children and young people 

Connection and belonging 

The Heads Up Alliance  

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