Jonathan Haidt

I strongly advocate for children to have more independent free play in the real world. Engaging in unstructured play allows children to develop creativity, problem-solving skills, and resilience. It also facilitates crucial social interactions that help them learn to negotiate, cooperate, and manage conflicts with peers. Additionally, physical play in real-world settings is essential for the development of motor skills and overall physical health. These experiences are fundamental to nurturing well-rounded, emotionally stable, and socially skilled individuals. Thus, increasing opportunities for independent free play is crucial for the healthy development of children.

I support the idea of banning smartphones in schools because I believe it can help create a more focused, engaging, and socially interactive learning environment. Smartphones often serve as a significant distraction, not only detracting from educational engagement but also from meaningful face-to-face interactions among students. These interactions are crucial for developing social skills and emotional intelligence. By removing smartphones from the school setting, we can reduce distractions, decrease instances of cyberbullying, and encourage students to engage more deeply with their peers, teachers, and the curriculum.

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.

As a social psychologist, I firmly believe that children should avoid social media at least until they are 16. The adolescent brain is still developing, and excessive use of social media can lead to anxiety, depression, and issues with self-esteem. Children need time to develop their identities and social skills in the real world before navigating the complexities of online interaction.