Smartphones feel inevitable… until you see what early access actually does to a child’s mental health, sleep, and happiness. In this episode, Dr Justin & Kylie Coulson break down new research from Pediatrics and share the family standard that finally ended the phone wars in their home (after one very big mistake).
KEY POINTS
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New study: earlier smartphones = worse outcomes for kids.
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The four real reasons parents give phones (and why they’re flawed).
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Why “safety” doesn’t require a smartphone.
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How to replace phones with smarter solutions (incl. dumb phones + watches).
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The research consensus: delay improves outcomes.
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The family rule that ends entitlement (“when you can afford it…”).
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Boundaries if you already handed over a phone (it’s not too late).
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The real question: approval now or wellbeing later?
QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“Kids don’t need smartphones — they need smart parents. And smart parents give their kids dumb phones.”
RESOURCES MENTIONED
ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS
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Define the real problem you’re solving (safety, logistics, social connection, or training).
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Offer alternatives (dumb phone, landline, watch).
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Create a family standard — e.g. “When you can pay for it, you can have it.”
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If they already have a phone:
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Bedrooms & bathrooms = no-phone zones
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No phones at meals or short car rides
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Time limits & age limits on social media
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Review + scale back where possible
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