These days, children seem to be getting smartphones at younger and younger ages. A recent CNN article by communication professor, Kara Alaimo, found that many 11- and 12-year-olds already have one. However, many experts, including Alaimo, recommend waiting until around age 16 before giving kids full access to social media, which usually comes with having a smartphone.
At KIST, we understand that parents want to stay in touch with their children for safety and peace of mind. Fortunately, there are great alternatives. In Japan, Kid’s Keitai allow calls and messages but not social media. Some families also use flip phones or smartwatches so children can reach them when needed.
Why waiting helps
Social media can interfere with studying, sleep, and even friendships. It can also create unnecessary peer pressure as many children feel they need a phone simply because their friends have one. This is a good opportunity to help them reflect on the difference between needs and wants. A phone may feel essential, but for most children, it’s not truly necessary yet. What they genuinely need is time for learning, play, and healthy friendships.
According to the article, research has also shown that using social media around puberty is linked to lower life satisfaction a year later. If most families in our school community waited until 15 or 16, it could ease this pressure and help children stay focused on learning and relationships. Together, we can continue fostering the safe and supportive environment that helps students grow with balance and strong moral character.
Setting healthy habits
When the time does come, setting family rules for technology use is key. Agree, for example, that phones are put away during meals or bedtime. Parents also play an important role by modeling balance. As psychotherapist Lauren Tetenbaum says, “Try not to be on your phone at meals with your kids.”
By supporting one another and guiding our children thoughtfully, we can help them grow into responsible, caring individuals who make meaningful contributions, both online and offline.
Warm regards,
