A mother from North London has made a firm decision regarding her children's access to technology, declaring that her son will not own a smartphone until he turns 16. Lucy White, 37, believes the risks associated with internet-enabled devices are too great for young, developing minds.
The 'Brick Phone' Compromise and Family Rules
Lucy and her husband Phil, 40, have agreed that their nine-year-old son, Ernie, will receive a basic mobile phone capable only of calls and texts when he finishes Year 6. This will allow him to contact them as he gains independence, for instance if a bus is late. However, the coveted smartphone is off the table for another seven years.
The same rule will apply to their two younger daughters, six-year-old Ruby and one-year-old Romie. While the family does allow screen time, it is strictly monitored. Ernie can play on his PlayStation and watch YouTube, but these activities are confined to downstairs areas where parents can overhear conversations and ensure he is only interacting with known friends.
Why a Total Smartphone Ban is Necessary
Lucy, who holds a childcare qualification, argues that it is impossible for parents to fully monitor what their children access online. "Anyone saying 'but I monitor what my child sees' is wrong," she states. "Unless you are looking at your child's phone 24 hours a day without taking your eyes off it, this is impossible."
She highlights numerous dangers she believes are just a tap away for children with smartphones, from hate speech and self-harm content to gambling and extremism. The Netflix documentary series 'Adolescence' was a particular eye-opener for her, reinforcing concerns about online predators who groom children by posing as friends. She is surprised more action hasn't been taken following its release.
Beyond online safety, Lucy links smartphones to rising rates of childhood anxiety, depression, sleep issues, and even obesity, as she believes screen time replaces physical activity and outdoor play.
A Call for Collective Action in Schools
Lucy is now advocating for a wider societal shift. She proposes that smartphones should be banned in all secondary schools until pupils reach Year 10 (age 14-15). Her logic is that if no child in the early years of secondary school has a device, the harmful peer pressure and 'fear of missing out' (FOMO) are eliminated.
"It would be great if all people could be in agreement, and we all decide no child is allowed to have one for the first three years of secondary school," she explains. This collective approach would, in her view, create a healthier environment and protect children during a critical period of their development.
As a parenting influencer on TikTok under the handle @lucylondonmum, Lucy uses her platform to discuss these issues and support other parents. She is also set to release a children's book titled 'My mum loves music', which focuses on building confidence.
