More States to ban or restrict cell phone use in schools

During election season, our country feels more disunited than united. However, even as the presidential debate underlined the ways in which the country is polarized, several key issues unite us across party lines. Today, I’m highlighting how some States are restricting or banning phone use in schools, a policy decision that unites Florida and California.

Some States, like Alabama, strongly recommend that schools strictly limit “the use of cellular telephones and or other electronic communication devices while on school property.” Others, like Delaware, incentivize schools to buy phone pouches, which enable students to securely lock up their phones for the day. Finally, States like Florida ban the use of cell phones “during instructional time.” You can find a full list of State policies here.

But why would States even consider restricting cell phone use in schools? 

Why schools should restrict phone use in schools

In June, US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy recommended putting a Surgeon General’s warning label on social media for minors, something which has only been used twice before in US history (they appear on alcohol and cigarettes). His warning comes after years of Congress hearing evidence about social media’s addictive and negative nature. 

In the piece on the Surgeon General’s warning, I wrote, “It’s now fairly well established that high social media use by teens strongly predicts higher rates of anxiety, depression, and sadness, as well as (ironically) lower sociality. Suicide and suicide ideation accompany the mental deterioration.”

A student on their phone during school means they miss opportunities to socialize. It makes sense why teens are tempted to retreat to their phones. School is an awkward, often difficult time, especially for unpopular kids. However, all signs point to regular phone use making things worse, not better. In addition, studies suggest phones can distract students around the phone user. Even the “mere presence” of a phone can be distracting. 

Some parents feel like phones keep their children safer by allowing them to be in constant contact. Parents can track their teen’s driving speed, contact them in case of an emergency, or let their kids use Apple Pay. As school shootings become more frequent, some parents want quick access to check in on their child, in case of the worst-case scenario. In short, worry or convenience can inhibit school policies from removing phones. 

Why some parents resist banning phones

It may seem like violent crime is on the rise; that the world is becoming less and less safe for children. However, generally speaking in the US, the real, physical world is far safer than it was thirty years ago. Additionally, it appears that children with less contact with the real world, i.e., less engagement with other children, homes, families, hard work, and community, grow up less resilient. 

By far, the largest threat of “stranger danger” is online. For example, according to the FBI, “An estimated 89 percent of sexual advances directed at children occur in Internet chatrooms or through instant messaging.” Education Week summarizes well: “A growing body of research points to the very real and ubiquitous risks that cellphone use presents to students’ safety.” 

Given the mounting body of evidence, there is ample reason for parents to support restrictions or bans on phones in school. Each State, district, and school will be different, of course. Consider other parents and the school administrator’s perspective. If the November election seems overwhelming, remember that we can often make more tangible differences in local politics and school boards than we can in federal elections.

Acting out of freedom, not fear

There’s an interesting parallel in Scripture—setting aside an idol or fear in sacrifice can actually be the way to properly value the thing. For example, fasting from food can allow us to appreciate it more. More profoundly, God called Abraham to sacrifice his only son Isaac. Once Abraham readies himself to sacrifice Isaac, God provides a replacement (Genesis 22:1-19). Although children are an incredible blessing, they cannot be our foundation (Psalm 127:3). Our children, our families, will never be perfect. Instead, love entails discipline, but appropriate measures of freedom too—as frightening as it may seem! 

If parents cling to their children too closely, they may be more likely to lose their trust. If they love them in discipline, grace, and freedom, they’re more likely to retain them as friends into adulthood. In short, children can become idols, with disastrous consequences. In the same way, some parents might oppose school restrictions on cell phones out of fear, when in reality, the best course for their children is freedom from their cell phone’s negative effects.

With the school year well underway, we should praise God for children and unite around protecting them. Pray for the wisdom, strength, and courage to parent well, remembering that while you and your children are imperfect, our heavenly Father is not, and he stands ready to help if we’re willing to accept it.

Are you? 

• Note: For more parenting resources, especially on how to help parenting children’s screen time, check out Christian Parenting.