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Britain’s largest mobile phone operator has advised parents with primary school-age children not to give their children smartphones.
EE provided guidelines for children under 11, suggesting parents should instead provide them with a “limited functionality device” that can text and make calls but cannot access social media or inappropriate content.
Network operators said the initiative was in response to growing concerns among parents about screen time, online safety and the impact of digital use on their children’s health.
“Technology and connectivity have the power to change lives, but we recognise that the increasing complexity of smartphones can make it difficult for parents and carers,” said Matt Sears, EE’s corporate affairs director. statement.
“Children need support, which is why we are releasing new guidelines on smartphone use for under-11s, 11-13 and 13-16 year olds to help them make the best choices as they grow up,” he said.
EE also advised that smartphones used by children aged 11 to 13 should have parental controls enabled, family sharing apps implemented and access to social media restricted.
The company suggested the smartphone was suitable for 13 to 16 year olds, but advised that parental controls should be used to “limit children’s access to inappropriate sites, content and platforms.”
It is believed to be the first time a UK telecoms operator has offered such advice on children’s smartphone use.
There is growing concern about the impact of smartphone use on children and young people. Jonathan Haidt’s best-selling book, The Anxious Generation, attracted global attention when he argued that the widespread use of smartphones was linked to an increase in mental health problems among young people.
The book argues for a ban on social media for children under 16 and for mobile phones to be banned in schools.
Some schools, including the prestigious British boarding school Eton College, have taken steps to reduce children’s reliance on smartphones. In July, BI reported that Eton College had banned smartphones for its first-year students, introducing Nokia “Brick” phones instead.
Meanwhile, about 12 high schools in South London are working together No smartphones allowed This will affect more than 13,000 students.