FAQs

  • There are a few reasons why we think it's best to wait until you're 16 to have a smartphone:

    1. Responsibility: Smartphones are a big responsibility. They have a lot of features, like social media and internet access, that require you to use them wisely. When you’re older, you’ll have more experience and maturity to handle these things responsibly.

    2. Focus on School and Friends: Right now, it's important to focus on school and spending time with friends in person. Having a smartphone can be a big distraction and might make it harder to concentrate on your homework or enjoy face-to-face time with friends and family.

    3. Safety and Privacy: With a smartphone, you’ll be sharing more of your personal information. Being older means you'll better understand how to protect your privacy and stay safe online. It’s important to be cautious about what you share and who you communicate with.

    4. Balance: We want to make sure you have a good balance between screen time and other activities. When you’re a bit older, you'll have a better sense of how to manage your time and stay active, creative, and engaged in other hobbies.

    5. When You're Ready: By the time you’re 16, you’ll be better prepared for the responsibility of having a smartphone. You’ll have learned how to use technology wisely and responsibly, which will help you make the most out of it.

    I hope you understand that this isn’t about not trusting you; it’s about making sure you’re ready for the responsibility that comes with a smartphone. In the meantime, we can find other ways to stay connected and have fun together.

  • Creating healthy phone use habits is incredibly important. Here are some simple steps you can follow to help make it happen:

    For Kids:

    1. Set Clear Rules: Decide with your parents or guardians when and where you can use your phone. For example, maybe no phones at the dinner table or during homework time.

    2. Use Apps Wisely: Choose apps and games that are educational or fun but don't let them take up too much of your time.

    3. Take Breaks: Remember to take breaks from screens. Try to spend some time each day doing activities that don’t involve your phone, like playing outside or reading a book.

    4. Be Mindful of Time: Use timers or built-in screen time trackers to help manage how long you spend on your phone.

    5. Turn Off Notifications: Notifications can be distracting. Turn them off for apps that aren't important so you’re not constantly interrupted.

    For Parents and Guardians:

    1. Lead by Example: Show your children how to use phones responsibly by modelling healthy phone habits yourself.

    2. Create Family Rules: Establish rules for phone use at home, like no phones during family meals or before bed.

    3. Monitor Content: Make sure that the apps and games your kids use are age-appropriate and safe.

    4. Encourage Other Activities: Support and encourage activities that don’t involve screens, like sports, reading, or crafting.

    5. Have Open Conversations: Talk with your kids about the importance of balancing phone use and being aware of what they’re doing online.

    6. Use Parental Controls: Many devices have settings that help limit screen time and manage app usage. Use these tools to help guide your child's phone use.

    By following these steps, you can help create a balanced and healthy relationship with phone use for yourself and your family!

  • Definition: A digital detox involves temporarily removing yourself from digital devices and online activities. This could mean taking a break from social media, reducing screen time, or avoiding digital communication for a set period.

    Purpose: The primary aim is to reduce stress, increase productivity, or improve mental health by limiting the distractions and demands of constant connectivity. It’s often a short-term measure to regain balance and perspective.

  • Definition: Digital wellbeing is a broader, more ongoing approach that focuses on maintaining a healthy relationship with technology over the long term. It involves actively managing and optimizing your use of digital tools to enhance overall well-being.

    Purpose: The goal is to create a sustainable balance where technology supports your life without causing harm. This includes setting boundaries, being mindful of your digital habits, and using tools and practices that foster a healthier interaction with technology.