"Adolescence Without Cell Phones": Spanish Parents Rally Against Early Smartphone Use

Tuesday 09 January 2024 - 14:15

Madrid - A burgeoning movement, coined "Adolescence Without Cell Phones," is gaining momentum in Spain, with parents mobilizing against the trend of providing smartphones to children at increasingly younger ages. The fervor has captured the attention of the national government, prompting considerations for restrictions on phone usage in schools.

At the Dragon American School in suburban Madrid, the daily routine involves students like 17-year-old Carolina placing their phones in sealed pouches under the watchful eye of the principal before entering class. "I forget about it, put it in my bag, and can't touch it anymore," Carolina remarks with a smile. The school, which has banned smartphones for three years, enforces this policy on its 220 students aged 12-18 during lessons and breaks.

English teacher Darcy Cadman attests to the tangible benefits of the policy. "By putting phones away, we gain those 10 minutes normally spent getting the students' attention," she explains. "It's really nice because when they come to class, they're already seated and ready to start." Today, as her students give oral presentations, Cadman notices heightened engagement, with students being more attentive, interactive, and active in class.

Recess at the school provides an opportunity for students to socialize screen-free. Some chat over snacks, play cards, or read books in the cafeteria, while others brave the December chill to play foosball outside. Laia, seated on a sofa, talks with friends about the policy. "At first, it was a bit tough getting used to it," she recalls. "But now I'm used to it...it's easier, and I don't think about it anymore."

The American Dragon School stands out as a pioneer in banning phones in Spain. Principal Helder Marques considers it a necessary move to enhance student learning and attentiveness. However, restricting phone use faces challenges, as it's customary in Spain for children to receive their first smartphone upon entering secondary school. To counter social pressure, parents in Barcelona formed the "Adolescence Without Cell Phones" movement, decrying the dangers of early screen exposure.

On December 14th, the movement organized its first debate in Barcelona's Poblenou district, where participants, including parents, medical professionals, and teachers, voiced concerns about children being exposed to inappropriate images and content. Group spokesperson Tamara Fernandez, a psychologist, highlights the accessibility of violent or pornographic materials, alarming parents across the nation.

The movement, gaining nationwide traction, has garnered support from thousands of parents with a shared goal: the complete banning of phones in high schools. Fernandez expresses gratitude for the unexpected impact and hopes the initiative continues to grow, applying pressure on politicians to make a decisive move.

The grassroots efforts have already spurred government action. On December 13th, Education Minister Pilar Alegría proposed banning phones in primary schools and restricting their use in secondary schools on a school-by-school basis. After consulting with experts, Alegría plans to present the debate to the State School Council, involving teacher, family, and student representatives. The objective is to discuss potential solutions with regional education authorities, aiming to implement rules by early 2024.