Wait to Grant Smartphones Until High School

Give only basic phones before age 14. Provide your child with a device that can call or text you and close contacts, but with no internet or app access. Model this as a privilege earned with responsibility.

Align with other parents for community norms. Connect with other families to agree on smartphone age thresholds, aiming for collective action so no child feels isolated.

Communicate your reasoning with empathy. Explain to your child the neuroscience of brain development and why waiting is a gift, not a punishment. Reiterate that delayed access is meant to protect, not control.