The use of smartphones, mobile phones, smart devices and other technologies is now a feature of daily life for people of all ages.
However, there is an increasing awareness amongst educators and mental health professionals that smartphone use:
- Is contributing to a global increase in anxiety amongst children; and
- May expose children to a number of risks, including cyberbullying, harmful or disturbing interactions and content.
Some of the top main concerns around smartphones and children:
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- Smartphones are addictive
- Excessive smartphone use is altering children’s brains
- Smartphones impair sleep
- Screen time impacts behaviour
- Smartphones interfere with relationships
- Smartphones increase the risk for anxiety and depression
- Smartphones put your child at risk for cyber bullying
- Smartphones expose children to sexual content
- The government have launched a guide for parents and Parents’ Associations, called Keeping Childhood Smartphone Free
Source: Cybersafe kids
In response to this and to the recent survey circulated to all parents, the Parents’ Association is proposing that parents can sign up to an annual voluntary collective agreement.
The voluntary collective agreement will:
- Commit you to delaying providing your child(ren) with their own smartphone until at least the end of 6th class.
Key points of Voluntary agreement:
- The voluntary agreement does not include regular phones without any internet access.
- Results for the agreement will remain anonymous.
- The agreement recognises that every family has different priorities and opinions in relation to internet access and smartphone use.
- If a parent/guardian wants to purchase a smartphone for their child/children, they can do so at any stage.
We would ask you to fill in the agreement even if you are not signing up to it.
By submitting this form, you consent to the collection and storage of your email address. We assure you that your decision regarding the smartphone voluntary agreement will be kept confidential and will not be shared with any third parties.
Your personal data will be securely stored and managed in accordance with GDPR guidelines.
It is anticipated that this form will be renewed each September in each of the years that your child attends this school.