As a social psychologist, I believe that children should not have smartphones before high school due to the potential negative impacts on their mental health and social development. Smartphones can significantly increase screen time, which may detract from essential face-to-face interactions with peers and family, interactions that are critical for developing robust social skills. Moreover, early exposure to social media can exacerbate issues like anxiety, depression, and bullying among young children. By delaying the introduction of smartphones, I argue that children can foster healthier social interactions and be better shielded from the harmful effects of constant digital connectivity and the pressures of social media.