We live in an age where everyone has a smartphone. Parents, grandparents, and even children are now able to scroll through social media, search the internet, and stay in constant contact through the small device in their back pocket.

There have been plenty of studies linking negatives impacts to sleep, health, and mental illness to smartphones, and now new research shows that children under 13 should steer clear of them.

As adults, it can be easier to set boundaries with screentime and express our concerns with mental health, but children may find these things to be more difficult. And that's just the start of it.

Children and Smartphones

It's not uncommon to see pre-teens with smartphones in their hands. These devices can offer some educational benefits, like a wealth of information at the tip of your fingers, and can give families a sense of security, but a recent study cautions against giving them to children under 13.

The study found that children under 13 are particularly vulnerable to the negative affects smartphones can have, including disrupted sleep, increased anxiety, and exposure to age inappropriate content. These concerns are componded by the addictive nature of smartphones, which can lead to excess screentime and lack of social interaction.

And it's not even just in the moment that children can be affected by smartphones. The study also suggests that smartphones at this age could impact their cognitive development, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Another study suggests that children use social media during puberty are more likely to have lower-life satisfaction just a year later.

What's the Best Age For Smartphones?

While experts recommend waiting util at least 16 to give kids a smartphone, the decision is not always an easy one. Research does suggest that waiting until kids are in their mid-teens can help develop a more mature brain, better self-regulation, and a greater ability to handle the pressure that can come with using a smartphone.

By 16, teens are more likely to be able to manage their screentime and online interactions.

However, the reality is that many children under the age of 16 have smartphones, and they may feel disconnected or isolated from their friends. In this case, it's important to know how to teach good habits when it comes to smartphones and social media as a child.

Good Smartphone Habits For Kids

Knowing how to teach children good habits and balance when using their smartphone can be essential to keep them productive and connected to the real world, instead of stressed or distracted.

1. Set screentime limits: use built-in features to limit their screen time each day. This can help prevent them from overusing their smartphone and teach good habits to carry on in their teenage years.

2. Create phone-free zones: Establish areas or times in the house where phones aren't allowed, like the dinner table or after 8pm. This can help create boundaries while promoting social interaction and good sleep hygiene.

3. Teach about privacy and safety: Your child should know about protecting their personal information online and being cautious about what they share. Make rules surrounding downloading apps or only talking to friends from school online.

4. Monitor their activity: This doesn't mean you have to read all their text messages, but it's good to know who they're talking to and what they're searching online. Make it clear to them that you are monitoring their smartphone, so it builds a sense of trust instead of lack of privacy.

5. Lead by example: You can't tell your child no phones at the table if you're using yours during dinnertime. Make sure to follow your own rules and set a good example for them to follow.