Will Parents Turn Off Their Phones This Christmas to Set an Example?

This Christmas, parents are encouraged to lead by example and minimise smartphone use during family gatherings, according to England's Children's Commissioner, Dame Rachel de Souza. She emphasised the importance of "phone-free time" to foster genuine engagement with children, as many are reportedly "crying out" for attention during festive meals. Nearly half of parents with children under 18 intend to allow phones at the dinner table, raising concerns about the impact on family dynamics.

Last updated: 07 December 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Dame Rachel de Souza's recent comments highlight a growing concern regarding the impact of smartphones on family interactions during Christmas. With a significant number of parents planning to permit phone usage during dinner, the Commissioner is advocating for a shift towards more mindful engagement. The emphasis is on creating an environment where families can connect without digital distractions, especially during the festive season.

Key takeaways

Nearly half of parents plan to allow phones at the Christmas dinner table.
Dame Rachel de Souza urges for "phone-free time" to enhance family engagement.
Children express a need for more attention from parents during family meals.

Timeline: how we got here

The discourse surrounding technology use among families has evolved significantly in recent years. Key milestones include:

December 2023: Dame Rachel de Souza advocates for phone-free family time during Christmas.
November 2023: A survey reveals that nearly half of parents allow phones at the table.
October 2023: Research by More in Common highlights the disruptive nature of smartphones during Christmas.
September 2023: The Children's Commissioner launches a guide for online safety and managing screen time.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Dame Rachel's call for parents to set boundaries on smartphone usage is a new plea aimed at enhancing family relationships during the holiday season. This comes alongside the release of a guide aimed at helping parents navigate online safety and set screen time limits for their children.

What was already established

It has been known for some time that excessive screen time can disrupt family interactions and that children are increasingly aware of the negative aspects of online engagement. Previous studies have shown that many parents struggle to find a balance between technology use and quality family time.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The rising acceptance of smartphone usage at the dinner table may lead to diminished family cohesion during festive gatherings. As families increasingly opt for digital engagement over face-to-face interaction, there could be long-term repercussions for relationships and communication skills among children and teenagers.

Businesses and jobs

As consumers become more aware of the importance of family dynamics, businesses may need to adapt their marketing strategies to address the growing demand for family-oriented products and services that promote engagement without screens. This could also influence sectors like hospitality, where family dining experiences could be marketed as "phone-free" zones.

Policy and regulation

As concerns regarding screen time and online safety continue to rise, policymakers may feel pressured to implement guidelines that promote healthier technology use among children. This could involve collaboration with educational institutions and tech companies to develop resources aimed at enhancing family interactions and online safety.

Numbers that matter

40% of adults reported that smartphones disrupted their Christmas celebrations.
Nearly 50% of parents with children aged 18 or younger plan to allow phones at the dinner table.
Children aged 8-14 are spending an average of nearly 3 hours online each day.
Up to 25% of children's online activity occurs between 9 PM and 5 AM.

Definitions and jargon buster

Smartphones: Mobile phones that offer advanced functionalities, including internet access and apps.
Screen time: The amount of time spent using devices with screens, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers.
Online safety: Practices and guidelines aimed at protecting individuals from risks associated with using the internet.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Families should start setting clear guidelines for smartphone use during the holiday season. Engaging in discussions about the importance of being present during family meals can help foster a more connected environment.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the new year approaches, families might consider creating a family plan for device use that includes designated "phone-free" times. This could be further reinforced by engaging in conversations about healthy digital habits.

Signals to watch

Increased reports of family engagement initiatives from local businesses.
Surveys assessing changes in parental attitudes towards smartphone use during family time.
New guidelines or policies from educational institutions regarding technology use in school settings.

Practical guidance

Do

Establish "phone-free" zones during meals to encourage family interaction.
Engage your children in conversations about their online experiences and feelings.
Set clear boundaries for screen time that apply to all family members.

Don’t

Don’t allow phones at the dinner table to avoid distractions.
Don’t ignore your children's online experiences; talk to them regularly.
Don’t feel guilty about your tech use; focus on making changes moving forward.

Checklist

Have a family meeting to discuss screen time rules.
Create a designated box for phones during meals.
Plan family activities that encourage interaction without screens.
Set a daily limit on screen time for all family members.
Discuss online safety and how to handle negative experiences openly.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the call for reduced smartphone use during family time is well-intentioned, there are some uncertainties regarding the implementation of such guidelines. Different families have varying dynamics, and what works for one may not suit another. Additionally, the challenge remains in ensuring that all family members adhere to these rules, particularly in a society where digital engagement is pervasive.

Bottom line

As Christmas approaches, families are encouraged to reflect on their smartphone usage and its impact on relationships. By prioritising "phone-free" time, parents can set a positive example for their children, fostering stronger connections and enriching family interactions. This shift not only promotes healthier relationships but also addresses the growing concerns around online safety and screen time.

FAQs

Why is it important for parents to turn off their phones during family time?

Turning off phones during family time is important as it encourages genuine engagement and connection among family members, allowing children to feel valued and heard.

What are some tips for managing screen time during the holidays?

Setting clear "phone-free" zones during meals, planning family activities that encourage interaction, and engaging in conversations about online safety are effective tips for managing screen time.

How can parents discuss online safety with their children?

Parents should talk openly and frequently about their children's online experiences, encouraging them to share any concerns. Providing guidance on handling negative online situations is crucial for their safety.