[SoDu How-To] Best Ways to Set Boundaries for Tech with Kids?

In today’s connected world, raising kids with smartphones is a high-stakes balancing act. Whether you’re navigating your child’s first device, debating dinner-table rules, or wondering how much tech is too much – you’re not alone.

I’ve rounded up some articles exploring how families around the world are rethinking screen time, social media, and smartphone boundaries. From parents ditching devices to teens taking charge of their own tech habits, these stories offer insight, ideas, and maybe even a little reassurance.

📱 “Are My Kids Missing Out Without a Smartphone?”

A mom sparked debate on Mumsnet by revealing she doesn’t own a smartphone -and worries her kids are falling behind socially and academically. Many parents weighed in, noting that phones have become essential tools for school updates and peer connection.
📰 Source: People

🛡️ New Parental Controls Coming to Android

Google is testing powerful new family-friendly tools in Android Canary. The update will include screen-time limits, content filters, and Chromebook-style device management—launching soon with Android 16 on Pixel 10.
📰 Source: Android Central

🍽️ Peter Andre’s No-Phone Dinner Rule

British entertainer Peter Andre is leading by example with a family policy: no phones at the dinner table. He’s pushing for more awareness of how constant screen exposure impacts kids’ mental health—and encourages tech-free mealtime conversation.
📰 Source: The Sun

🏕️ The Rise of Phone-Free Camps

From foraging to kayaking, more summer camps are banning smartphones to help kids unplug and reengage with nature. Advocates say it’s a vital reset for kids growing up with screen overload.
📰 Source: The Times (UK)

📵 Surprise: Teens Cutting Back on Phones Themselves

A UK study finds 40% of 12–15-year-olds are choosing to limit screen time for their own mental health. Teens cite better sleep and reduced anxiety when they self-regulate their phone use.
📰 Source: The Guardian

🧠 Most Parents Regret Early Social Media Access

According to a Harris Poll, nearly 70% of U.S. parents regret giving their kids smartphones and social media access too early – likening the regret to letting a child drink or use firearms too young.
📰 Source: New York Times

🏫 More Schools Ban Smartphones

Starting this fall, schools in several states – including New York – will ban smartphones during school hours. Early reports show the policy improves attention and reduces classroom conflict.
📰 Source: Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office

📞 “Alternative Device Fairs” Are a Thing Now

Across the U.S., parents are hosting events to showcase kid-safe alternatives to smartphones – like flip phones or talk-only devices. The goal: delay digital dependence and support healthier communication habits.
📰 Source: The Atlantic

📟 “Dumb Phones” Make a Comeback for Kids

The Atlantic profiles families choosing landlines and flip phones over smartphones for their children. Parents say it fosters clearer conversations and preserves imagination.
📰 Source: The Atlantic

💬 Share Your Thoughts!

Which smartphone rules or tech boundaries have you tried with your kids- and how have they worked out? Reply to this newsletter or send email to wes.platt@southpointaccess.news.

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