Exploring the Impact of Smartphones and Social Media on Children’s Wellbeing

On Tuesday evening, our school community came together for a deeply engaging Parent Forum, where nearly 200 parents gathered to explore the critical themes presented in Jonathan Haidt’s book, The Anxious Generation. This event provided a platform to discuss the profound impact of smartphones and social media on our children’s mental health and development. 

Understanding ‘The Anxious Generation’ 

Jonathan Haidt, a renowned social psychologist, delves into the alarming rise in mental health issues among adolescents in his book. He attributes this surge to what he terms the “Great Rewiring” of childhood—a shift from play-based, real-world experiences to a phone-based, digital existence. Haidt identifies four foundational harms contributing to this crisis: social deprivation, sleep deprivation, attention fragmentation, and addiction. He advocates for delaying smartphone access until high school and restricting social media use until at least age 16 to mitigate these effects . 

Highlights from the Forum 

Our keynote speaker, Madhavi Nawana Parker, a respected educator and author, provided valuable insights into the mental health effects of smartphones and social media on children. She emphasised the importance of fostering resilience and wellbeing in young minds. 

Emily Harrison,from Wait Mate, encouraged families to consider delaying smartphone access for their children, highlighting the benefits of preserving childhood free from digital distractions. 

The panel discussion, featuring Madhavi, Emily, Tassie Mangos, Jo Hirst, and counsellor Lisa Bonderanko, offered thoughtful responses to parent questions and shared practical strategies to support our children’s mental health. 

Taking Action 

Inspired by the discussions, we recognise the importance of collective action in addressing these challenges. Some steps we can consider include: 

• Delaying Smartphone Access: Encouraging families to postpone providing smartphones to children until they reach high school age. 

• Promoting Phone-Free Schools: Creating an environment where smartphones are not used during the school day to support focus, learning, and peer connection.  

• Limiting Screen-Based Homework: The school will be looking at ways we can reduce the amount of homework assigned which require device use at home, helping to reduce unnecessary screen time and support healthier routines.   

• Restoring Play-Based Childhood: Offering more opportunities for unstructured, real-world play that supports creativity, independence, and wellbeing. 

• Reclaiming Real-World Experiences: Prioritising offline experiences that strengthen relationships and mental health. 

Together, by making intentional choices, we can help protect and nurture our children’s wellbeing—at school, at home, and in the wider world. 

For more information and resources, visit The Anxious Generation. 

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who participated in the forum. Together, we can work towards reclaiming a healthier, more balanced childhood for our children.