Colman Noctor: It's not smart to let kids control their phones

Instead of stepping back when our child gets their first smartphone, we need to step in

Pic: iStock

A FIRST smartphone is a highlight in a child’s life. However, the early stages of ownership must be carefully managed if they are to develop a healthy relationship with technology.

It may be helpful to look at the child’s technology usage as you look at their diet. We all strive for our children to have a healthy, nutritious diet and do our best to encourage, regulate and influence their dietary choices. Most children are not sufficiently mature to regulate these choices and, if it was left up to them, would probably choose junk food and toast. For this reason, parents need to take control of their children’s food choices, offering more autonomy as they get older.