Frequently Asked Questions

 

Why should I be concerned about giving my child a smartphone?

We define smartphones as devices that connect to the internet and can download apps, specifically social media apps. We know how hard it is for us as adults to manage our phones, so it’s no surprise that smartphones are incredibly hard for kids to manage, too. They’re addictive by design, and research is clear: early and heavy smartphone use is linked to higher rates of anxiety, depression, sleep issues, academic struggles, body image concerns, and exposure to adult content. We acknowledge that smartphones are part of modern life; however,  we believe kids need time to grow and develop before carrying a powerful device in their pocket all day. 

 

By age 11, most American kids already have a smartphone (and a quarter of kids have one by age 8). Many are exposed to adult content by middle school.  Teens are now getting up to 200 notifications a day. That’s a lot for a developing brain to manage! Kids aren’t asking for smartphones to use GPS or check the weather. They want them to socialize, game, and scroll, and we understand that. However, smartphones come with risks that even most adults struggle to control. 

 

Why should I be concerned about social media?

Social media isn’t just a fun way to connect. It’s designed to keep users hooked, and for young people, it affects far more than how they spend their time. Teens themselves say it’s making them feel worse. Nearly half say it harms people their age and that they wish it had never been invented. Experts agree that social media is a legitimate factor in today’s youth mental health crisis. It’s been shown to impact brain development, making kids more vulnerable to social pressure and reward-seeking behaviors. 

 

How long should I wait before giving my child a smartphone or social media?

The short answer: the longer, the better. We believe middle school should be a phone-free period (which is why we believe in delaying smartphones until kids go to high school) and that social media can wait until at least 16. These recommendations are backed by former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy and research from experts like Jonathan Haidt and Sapien Labs, which found that the later a child gets a smartphone, the better their mental health is as a young adult. That said, every family is different. Delco Unplugged is a judgment-free community. Whether you're aiming to delay until high school or just trying to reduce screen time at home, you're welcome here.

 

What about tablets, computers, and general screen time?

We’re not against technology — we use it, too! However, we believe screens should serve kids’ development, not take away from it. There’s a big difference between watching a family movie and spending two hours scrolling YouTube shorts. Content and time both matter. Kids also need time away from screens to play, be with friends, and connect with family face-to-face. Some tips we recommend:

• Delay social media, no matter the device.
• Set time limits for device use and talk to your kids about why.
• Create tech-free zones and times, like at the dinner table or during family events.
• Keep tech use in shared spaces when possible.
• Power down one hour before bedtime to help with sleep.

 

What if I need to contact my child but don’t want to give them a smartphone?

There are great alternatives! Devices like the Gabb phone, Bark phone, and Gizmo watch allow calling and texting without the internet or apps. Your child stays reachable, without the risks. Check our Resources page for more recommendations.

 

What if my child already has a smartphone or social media?

It’s never too late to make a change! Here are some ideas:

• Talk openly about your concerns and listen to their perspective.
• Try tech-free dinners or daily “unplugged” windows. 
• Keep phones out of the bedroom and use a regular alarm clock instead.
• Reduce notifications and remove "problem" apps that have become especially addictive.
• Set boundaries around where and when the phone can be used.
• Do a “digital detox” challenge together. 

 

What can I say to my child to help them understand our decision?

We recommend keeping the tone kind and clear.  Let them know they’re not alone. Read an article or watch a short video together, or read something from a tech expert or older teen who’s stepped away. Connection and honesty go a long way. You might say something like:

 

"Phones are designed to be addictive, even for adults. My brain is fully developed, and I still struggle to put mine down. Your brain is still growing, and I want to protect it. This isn’t just about you, it’s true for every kid. I love you too much to give you something I know could harm you right now. I know it’s hard and I believe you’re strong enough to handle it."