Smartphone Risks for Children Under 13: Study Reveals Health Impacts

Smartphones offer quick connections and fast access to information. However, a new study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that children under 13 who own a smartphone are more susceptible to serious health impacts, such as depression, obesity and insufficient sleep, than those who don’t own one. Emplify Health has provided guidance and support for parents of children in the digital age. “Child and adolescent brains are still developing and can be impacted by outside sources such as smartphones,” said Rhonda Bryhn, a psychotherapist with Emplify Health by Gundersen. “Many kids have not yet developed the self-regulation skills that would help them make good choices about their smartphone use. For example, their use of smartphones that were originally given to them for purposes of communication with caregivers and safety may drift into other uses during the day and even night.” Bryhn also said that, even though studies have not yet defined the exact ways in which smartphone use leads to health problems, there is evidence that smartphone use with children and young adolescents — especially problematic use — contributes to poorer mental and physical health outcomes. “Younger children typically lack the developmental maturity to understand, process and appropriately respond to a lot of the content they encounter online,” said Bryhn. “This makes them more vulnerable to cyberbullying, unrealistic comparisons to others and inappropriate and unsafe content.” Emplify Health experts recommend parents delay their child’s ownership of a smartphone for as long as possible. If a mobile phone is necessary to stay connected to the child, families may want to consider a “dumb,” or basic-feature phone. Many wireless providers offer phones which do not have internet access but still allow calling and texting. Emplify providers also recommend setting expectations and working collaboratively with children to set healthy and clear boundaries around usage of smartphones and other technology. This can include screen-free zones or specific time limits for when they can use their device — for example, setting a “no screens” time of at least one hour before bedtime to improve sleep quality. Emplify said the rules should, as much as possible, apply to everyone in the family — including parents. Emplify officials said creating an open communication environment can also help ensure children feel comfortable and safe discussing smartphone usage or issues. Providers said honest conversations around the apps children use, who they are communicating with and what they are seeing can help ensure a safe experience online and with their devices. Emplify providers recommends regular check-ins to make sure everyone is up to date on their digital habits, and parents should make it clear to their child that if a bad situation arises online, they can and should come talk to their parent or other adult about it. Providers said staying calm when a child brings up such situations increases the likelihood the child will continue to be open about their activities. Adults can also be a model for healthy digital habits by assigning rules to themselves which set a good example of digital usage for their children. Providers said children mirror behavior from adults and, by demonstrating healthy screen habits, adults can help them make better digital decisions. Emplify providers recommends prioritizing face-to-face interactions and being fully present. Adults can encourage offline activities by promoting hobbies and physical activities which get young people away from screens. Reading, sports, crafts and community events are great ways to connect with others while allowing children to develop interests, talents and skillsets. “Rules and expectations around screen use, including smartphones, are a predominant topic in my practice,” said Tiffany Born, a pediatric psychologist with Emplify Health. “Discussing these topics early and setting boundaries before there is an issue will help establish healthier habits early and maintain open and honest conversations.” Parents are encouraged to reach out to their child’s pediatrician or even their own primary care provider for guidance on screen time, smartphone usage or other mental health-related issues.