Dr. Bob: How do feel about children having mobile phones in schools?
Answer: This is certainly a hot topic these days. But before I address the specifics of phones in schools, let’s talk about phones in general for children.
- Phones are different than other internet-connected devices. They are so much more portable (“mobile”) and, as such, can be even more of a distraction than tablets and computers.
- Content inappropriate for children can be reached so much easier and, in some ways more discretely and out of the sight without supervision of parents. Social media has become particularly toxic in the hands of some (sexting, bullying, or predators).
- Phones have become a substitute for face-to-face communication. One need only look at a public setting (restaurant, malls, airports), and you will see almost everyone looking at their phone, often to the exclusion of direct encounters. As our society has entered into a society of loneliness (Surgeon General report 2023 [https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf], we only perpetuate this cycle by having adults demonstrate isolating behaviors (using your phone and not interacting with others) and then permitting our children to do the same.
- Outside of social situations, phones have become a substitute for communication in families. Far too many families when out to eat are looking at their phones rather than talking to each other. By extension, I can only surmise that similar behavior is occurring at home. It is imperative that quiet, direct communication time, with phones turned off or silenced, be set aside on a regular basis. Otherwise, it is too easy to slip into the mode of assuming that texting is a sufficient means of communication. Looking into someone’s eyes and seeing their love, their nurturing and their empathy will NEVER take the place of a text or email. Granted some circumstances preclude direct communication but we have let the phones become an erosive element in our interactions.
- When considering a phone for children, remember that it is a unique consideration for each child. (https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/Media/Pages/cell-phones-whats-the-right-age-to-start.aspx) There needs to be a certain degree of maturity and responsibility to having and using a cell phone. Specific rules of engagement need to be established just like parents will set up when their child starts to drive. Uncontrolled access and use should not be allowed.
- Children often do not appreciate the expenses involved with the equipment and the plans necessary for phone service. It would be reasonable to discuss this and have the child share some portion of the financial burden, even if only a small portion.
Now, let me get to the original question – should children be allowed to have mobile phones in schools? My answer is yes but with a qualifier. Given the possibility of emergencies (fire, weather, and unfortunately firearm incidents), I would want my child to be able to use a phone and let us know the status of things in the event that they had to be restricted to the classroom. We have all seen circumstances where communications from children in the school has provided vital information to the parents and the authorities. My qualifier – the children should not have access to the phone during instruction time. Any distraction from even a buzzing phone takes away from the learning experience. The phones should be stowed in the classroom (for access if necessary) but not with the student during class. The phones should be turned off in the classroom. I don’t want to second guess educators for access in other places but I think phones in schools are a modern necessity, with proper instruction and proper restrictions.
Dr. Saul is Professor of Pediatrics (Emeritus) at Prisma Health and his website is www.mychildrenschildren.com. Contact Dr. Bob at askdrbobsaul@gmail.com