Children and phones: what parents should know

Children today grow up with smartphones, tablets and Wi-Fi. Many parents wonder: when does a first phone make sense, how much screen time is fine and what should you watch out for?

Why children deserve special attention

Children's nervous systems are still developing. Experts therefore recommend a particularly mindful use of digital media for children, both because of screen time and as a precaution regarding wireless signals. The FOPH generally recommends keeping exposure from phones low with simple measures.

Guidance by age

A well-known rule of thumb is "3-6-9-12": no screens under 3, no own games console before 6, no own internet before 9 and no social networks before 12. It does not replace an individual decision, but provides a good framework.

Tips for family life

1. Shared rules. Agree together when and where phones are used. Rules that also apply to adults are accepted more easily.
2. No phone in the child's room overnight. A charging station in the hallway is a simple, fair compromise.
3. Calls with headphones or speaker. That keeps the phone away from the head.
4. Tablet in airplane mode for games and films. Downloaded content works offline too.
5. Be a role model. Children copy what they see. A phone-free dinner table does more than any rule.

Many families use VIVOBASE HOME as a simple basis for a calmer home and give older children VIVOBASE MOVE for their school bag. Phones and Wi-Fi work completely normally.

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