Renowned singer Lily Allen recently discussed her family’s mindful use of smartphones in a conversation with The Sunday Times. Allen revealed she favours a minimalist phone without internet browsing and social networking features, although it still enables access to essential apps.
Notably, her husband, actor David Harbour, supervises the apps on her phone, as she employs a Pinwheel – a device typically designed for children. In their mutual partnership, Allen exerts equal control over what content appears on Harbour’s phone.
Concerned about the potential for smartphone addiction, Allen balances her own use and has recently detached her daughters from their phones. This move stems from a book she read advocating against children under 14 using smartphones, leading to the introduction of a strict no-smartphone policy in her home.
Allen and Harbour share worries about the harmful implications of smartphones, believing they sap the humanity from relationships and real-life experiences.
Promoting mindful smartphone habits: Allen’s approach
They propose that it’s important to use smartphone time more creatively, urging a reconsideration of gadget use, and underscoring the need for a balance between digital and human interaction.
Among other celebrities expressing concerns about children’s exposure to smartphones and social media are Penélope Cruz, Kirsten Dunst, and Bill Gates, former CEO of Microsoft. The consensus among these celebrities is that excessive screen time can adversely affect children’s social development and mental health, often lobbying for controls on internet usage.
Research in recent years has engendered a heightened skepticism about children using digital devices. For example, a study commissioned by French President Emmanuel Macron recommended no smartphone use until age 13, and no social media until age 18, due to the potential impact on kids’ cognitive development and mental health.
Efforts to gain further comments from Allen’s agents were unsuccessful. Yet, attempts to gain clarification will continue, underscoring the importance of understanding the impact of digital technology on children’s lives.
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