There are several reasons why children under 13 should not have a mobile phone:
1. Screen Time & Development – Excessive screen use can interfere with cognitive development, sleep patterns, and attention span.
2. Online Safety Risks – Younger children may not fully understand online dangers, such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content, or online predators.
3. Social & Emotional Impact – Phones can reduce face-to-face interactions, hinder social skills, and contribute to anxiety or low self-esteem.
4. Distraction from Learning – Mobile phones can be a major distraction from schoolwork, reading, and other productive activities.
5. Health Concerns – Increased screen time has been linked to poor posture, eye strain, and reduced physical activity.
6. Cost & Responsibility – Younger children may struggle with the responsibility of handling an expensive device and avoiding damage or loss.
While some parents may find phones useful for safety reasons, alternatives like basic GPS trackers or family-shared devices can provide peace of mind without the risks of full mobile access.
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