The Current Parents are saying 'no' to smartphones for kids, here's why
Oct 20, 2025
Maddy Freeman, the founder of NoSo, discusses the growing trend of parents delaying smartphones for kids amidst concerns over social media's impact. They explore the challenges of navigating social connections without smartphones, with insights from parents and teens alike. Maddy shares her personal journey with early smartphone use and its impact on mental health, emphasizing the need for digital literacy. The conversation highlights ways to foster healthier habits and the role of advocacy in creating awareness around technology's effects on youth.
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Community Begun With Flyers
- Kate O'Connor put up flyers to find other parents delaying smartphones so her toddler wouldn't feel isolated later.
- She worried about phone addiction because her daughter already mimicked adults using devices.
Landline Replaces A Teen Phone
- Maggie gives her 12-year-old Aisling a landline and school laptop instead of a smartphone to limit temptations.
- Aisling uses the landline to arrange meetups and says she doesn't miss smartphone features much.
Controlled Phone As Compromise
- Lindsay delayed phones for years; her kids developed hobbies and creativity without constant screens.
- Her eldest eventually got a controlled phone (Pinwheel) that only allowed calls and texts.