Smartphone Free Childhood
Why are we concerned about children's Smartphone use?
Smartphones weren't designed with children in mind – but they’ve reshaped childhood almost overnight. In the UK, 89% of 12-year-olds now own one, and so do a quarter of children aged 5 to 7. On average, children get their first smartphone aged nine. Instead of growing up slowly, children are being pulled into a digital world built to keep them hooked. The impact on their development, mental health and relationships runs deep – and we can’t afford to look away any longer.
According to the TES Safeguarding Report 2025, 53% of schools have seen a rise in online safety issues, with 92% citing monitoring online activity outside of school as the biggest challenge.
What can parents do now?
Join thousands of other parents across Basingstoke and the UK by signing the Smartphone Free Childhood Parent Pact.
What are you signing up to? Not buying your child a smartphone until the end of Year 9.
What’s a brick phone?
They are not internet enabled but still allow calls and texts. They are cheap to buy, too (Amazon, Argos). No data needed for your SIM card. ASDA mobile sell these, for example.
What are the new school rules?
School rules are changing. From September 2025, only Year 6 pupils can bring a smartphone to school, and hand them into the class teacher on arrival. From September 2026, no pupils can bring a smartphone in to school. What’s the alternative for Years 5&6 pupils? Only brick phones are allowed. We hope this supports you in keeping your child safe and enjoying childhood.
Did you know?
