Tips for Managing your Child's Cellphone

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CLEVELAND - Whether it’s a new video game, tablet or cellphone, electronics are always a popular gift for kids during the holidays. 

But, research continues to show how addictive they can be. 

That’s why Adam Keating, MD, pediatrician with Cleveland Clinic Children’s, recommends setting limits on screentime. 

“The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends less than two hours of screen time per day, and I'd say for preschoolers that should be even less,” said Dr. Keating. “As far as cell phones and when kids should get those, I think that ends up being a family decision.”

Dr. Keating said if you do decide your child should have a cellphone, you may want to set some ground rules. 

For example, how often can they be on it? Are they allowed to access the internet? Can they use social media? 

If those are concerns, you could opt for a cellphone or smartwatch that’s kid-friendly and offers parental controls. 

Flip phones are another option since they are more basic. 

He said he can understand why parents are tempted to get their child a cellphone given the benefits. 

However, there are disadvantages to consider too. 

“They are showing a significant amount of distraction and decrease in learning, as well as decreasing the ability for kids to have face-to-face interaction where they learn about how to socially interact with each other,” he said. “It's certainly not the only reason why we're having some of our increases in loneliness, anxiety, and depression among kids, but cell phones are certainly a contributing factor.” 

Dr. Keating said many districts are now banning the use of cellphones during school hours.