Hear Voices

The mind of a child is a beautiful yet delicate thing. It's like a sponge that soaks up everything around it. Therefore it is prudent to be aware of exactly what it is exposed to. Allowing unfiltered access to social media platforms is akin to allowing complete strangers with dubious backgrounds into your home to supervise your child. The argument may seem one-sided as social media offers a means to stay informed and entertain oneself, however, the issue lies with the ability of the minds using it to sift through what is real and useful and what is unreal and harmful. Children need to develop self control and self regulation mechanisms, and that cannot be taught when they are constantly given pixelated dopamine hits every day. To protect our children we need to pay closer attention to what their minds are exposed to, and seek to introduce legislation that would make it easier for parents to control.

I support Smartphone Free Childhood T&T in encouraging delayed usage of smartphones and social media until at least age 16 whenever possible.

Dr. Kevin Morris

Acting Registrar for

Paediatrics and Child Health

SWRHA

MBBS, MRCPCH

I support the Smartphone Free Childhood mission from a professional and personal perspective. In my studies of Marriage, Education and Family, I did research on the technological effect, pornography, and the addictive effect. Based on that, my own children never received their own cell phones until after CSEC. In terms of navigating through Secondary School, I simply told the school administration that my children are not allowed to have a cellphone until after Form 5, and both administrations respected that fact. It is a parent's prerogative. All WhatsApp groups were sent to my husband's phone. All Google Classroom assignments were completed on my laptop. We also did not purchase video games for our children. They instead played together and with our neighbours’ children. They expanded their musical talents (parang band) and their athletic abilities by trying a different sport every July-August holiday. We also encouraged everyone to listen to different genres of music (stories etc), both at home and in the car. We have had no regrets. I therefore whole-heartedly endorse this initiative as I can only see the benefits for our children's best interest—emotionally, physically and mentally.

I support Smartphone Free Childhood T&T in encouraging delayed usage of smartphones and social media until at least age 16 whenever possible.

Tonia Leacock-Gooding

President of Communities Alive Education & Training

Mother of 6

Use of smartphones among children have negatively impacted their social and emotional lives. There is increasing evidence that smartphone use among these young minds has contributed to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. It is a frightening scenario as this addiction to technology has disrupted their development of interpersonal and communication skills. Let us work together to safeguard the innocent minds of children by regulating and closely monitoring their exposure to technology.

I support Smartphone Free Childhood T&T in encouraging delayed usage of smartphones and social media until at least age 16 whenever possible.

Jerome Teelucksingh

University Lecturer

Mental Health Advocate