Dinnertime Discussion Group - Should We Limit Smartphone Access for Children?

In June we'll be discussing Should We Limit Smartphone Access for Children? There are briefing materials available before the discussion at: Briefing Materials: Should We Limit Smartphone Access for Children?

Across the world, momentum is building to restrict children’s use of smartphones and social media. Parents, educators, and child‑health advocates argue that constant connectivity may undermine wellbeing, learning, and healthy development.

Several governments have already banned mobile phones in schools, while some are exploring wider limits on children’s access to social platforms. Technology companies have resisted these measures, denying responsibility for alleged harms in a series of legal challenges.

In the UK, the government is reviewing its approach, with a school‑day phone ban planned in the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill.

What are the facts? What evidence is there that use of smart phones and social media harm children? Are the proposed measures proportionate to the risk? Or are they more likely to be counterproductive?
What are you views? Come along to share them and discuss with like-minded people in a friendly environment.

We are trialling this as a sister event to our in-person Lunchtime Discussion Group. We are planning to run this on the Wednesday following the face-to-face meeting and will use the same topic and material as the Lunchtime Group. We are open to feedback and will use the feedback to inform future events.

What to Expect:
The Format: This is a relaxed, online gathering. Grab your meal if you've not had chance to eat, log in, and join the conversation from the comfort of your home. A paper will be available to read ahead of the event.

Participation: Newcomers are always welcome. There is no pressure to speak or have your camera on the whole time; attendees can simply sit, eat, and listen if they prefer.

Future Plans: We are keeping this fully online to reach as many people as possible, but we are very open to organizing in-person gatherings in the future if there is interest from the group.

Cost: Free.
We encourage those who have the means and interest to support us through membership. More information available on our website https://reading.humanist.org.uk/reading-humanists/membership/