Why Waiting Is Wise: A Faith-Based Guide to Kids and Smartphones
- John O'Maley
- Mar 22
- 2 min read
WHO
Parents of young children face mounting pressure to give their kids smartphones “like everyone else.” But you are not “everyone else.” You are a parent with a sacred calling to protect, teach, and guide your child—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually (Proverbs 22:6).
WHAT
Smartphones offer entertainment and convenience, but they also open the door to a world of danger:
Pornography and inappropriate content
Predators on social apps and gaming platforms
Cyberbullying and social pressure
Mental health risks (depression, anxiety, low self-esteem)
Screen addiction and reduced attention span
The American Academy of Pediatrics warns against unrestricted screen use before age 12. Research shows early smartphone use is linked to sleep problems, lower academic performance, and increased suicidal thoughts.
WHEN
So when should your child get a phone? The later, the better. Most experts recommend waiting until at least age 13, and many digital safety advocates urge 14–16 as a more responsible range. Every child matures differently—your decision should be based on maturity, trust, and need, not peer pressure.
WHERE & HOW
The issue isn’t just when, but where and how they use devices. Unsupervised access—especially in bedrooms—multiplies the risks. Children need clear rules, boundaries, and parental supervision. You wouldn’t let your child walk alone through a dangerous neighborhood—why let them roam unsupervised online?
WHY
Because their souls, minds, and futures are at stake. Jesus said, “If anyone causes one of these little ones to stumble, it would be better for them to have a millstone hung around their neck…” (Matthew 18:6). Smartphones are not neutral—they are tools that can either serve good or harm. Parents must delay access until they are spiritually and mentally ready.
SAFER ALTERNATIVES
When communication is necessary, consider safer, kid-friendly alternatives:
Gabb Wireless – No internet, social media, or app store. Talk/text/GPS only.
Bark Phone – AI-based monitoring, alerts for harmful content, full parental controls.
Troomi Wireless – Gradual access to kid-safe apps, no social media, GPS tracking, and safe browser options.
These tools offer connection without corruption—a bridge between total restriction and dangerous freedom.
FINAL WORD
Raising godly children in a digital age is hard. But you are not alone. Trust your instincts. Prioritize safety over popularity, wisdom over convenience, and faith over fear. You are the gatekeeper of your child’s heart and mind.
📚 References:
American Academy of Pediatrics – https://aap.org
Common Sense Media – “Tweens, Teens, Tech, and Mental Health”
Protect Young Eyes – https://protectyoungeyes.com
Barna Research – “Tech & Faith: Parenting in a Digital Age”
Gabb Wireless – https://gabb.com
Bark Technologies – https://bark.us
Troomi Wireless – https://troomi.com
Matthew 18:6, Proverbs 22:6, Romans 12:2
Deacon John O'Maley
Founder
Parents Protecting Children, Inc.
Empowering Catholic families to navigate the digital world with faith, safety, & responsibility
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