Kids’ futures are on the line.
What’s happening: According to new research in Pediatrics, kids who have a smartphone by age 12 face higher risks of depression, obesity, and poor sleep in adolescence. The earlier a device is received, the greater the risk.
Device dilemma. Only 23% of children under 12 own a smartphone, but most have access — and usage climbs with age. Weighing trade-offs, 86% of parents place rules on screentime, but adherence is inconsistent, leaving kids vulnerable to device addiction.
Bare necessities. Restoring balance, a new era of kids tech has built-in guardrails. Tin Can’s retro landline reframes phones for connection, while stripped-down dumbphones from Teracube, Zalpha Mobile, and Nothing reduce harmful content.
Prioritizing education, Daylight’s low-stimulation, kid-friendly computer limits distraction while supporting schoolwork and play.
Punchline: Safer devices can help, but constant digital fixation is a public health issue. Instead of debating a right age for smartphones, we need healthier lifestyles beyond them, leading by example instead of waiting for systemic change.
