You may have already heard about strict cell phone bans that are gaining traction in several school districts across the country, including the Los Angeles Unified School District. These bans prohibit students from using their cell phones while at school. Its proponents say that these new rules are meant to protect young minds from the harmful effects of social media and technology overuse. Many students, of course, aren’t happy about the bans.

 

Regardless of where you stand on the issue of cell phones at school, studies show it’s true that children and teens are spending more and more time on their phones – and that technology overuse, especially social media, is harmful for their mental health.

 

At Calm Classroom, we believe that anything can be an opportunity to practice mindfulness – including time spent on social media and cell phones. In this blog, we’ll give pointers on how educators and parents can help young people use technology more intentionally, in a way that limits its harmful effects.

 

Student cell phone usage statistics & facts

First, it might help to get a clear picture of kids and cell phones. Here are some illuminating statistics:

 

  • 71% of 12-year-olds (and 91% of 14-year-olds) have a personal cell phone.
  • 97% of students report using their cell phones while at school. 
  • Teens spend anywhere between 4 to 8 hours daily on their phones.
  • Kids aged 13 and up check their phones around 100 times a day.
  • Half of all young people receive over 200 notifications per day.
  • Over half of teens use their phones between midnight and 5AM on school nights.
  • Nearly half of teens say that leaving their phones at home causes symptoms of anxiety.
  • Teens who use their phones for over 4 hours a day are 66% more likely to report substance use and 22% more likely to be suicidal. 
  • Using image-based social media platforms (like Instagram) is significantly linked to a higher risk of body dysmorphia.

 

[Sources: Common Sense Media, Pew Research Center, Public Library of Science, Frontiers in Psychology]

 

How to help students use with mindful technology use

Regardless of whether you think district-wide cell phone bans are the answer, it’s clear that young people need our support in using technology in a way that doesn’t harm their mental health. 

 

Here are some ways that educators (and parents) can help promote mindful technology use for their students and minimize the negative impact it might have on their mental health.

 

Set intentional boundaries

Cell phone bans might set boundaries, but they're not the only way to manage tech use. It’s positive to set limits on when and where phones can be used – for example, no phones when with an in-person friend, during meals, or before bed. These intentional boundaries help students stay present and engaged.

 

Connect to values

We can use tech to bring us closer to our values instead of away from them. Encourage students to fill their feeds with content that makes them feel happier and more connected. They should aim to use technology to foster genuine connections rather than mindlessly scrolling. By aligning their tech use with their personal values, students can make more meaningful and positive choices.

 

Be aware of your time

So many of us scroll through our phones without realizing how much time has passed. Mindful tech use helps everyone combat mindless scrolling. Help students become aware of their tech use by introducing them to apps that track screen time. This awareness can lead to more intentional use of their devices, and empower them to make conscious decisions about how they spend their time online.

 

Set a good example

As adults, it’s crucial to model the behavior we want to see in our students. By demonstrating mindful technology use ourselves—such as limiting phone use during family time or prioritizing face-to-face interactions—we can set a positive example. Our actions can significantly influence students' attitudes and behaviors towards technology.

 

Encourage digital detox periods

Regularly scheduling digital detox periods can be beneficial. Encourage students to take breaks from their devices for a few hours each day or dedicate one day a week to being tech-free. These breaks can help reduce dependency on technology and provide time for other enriching activities like reading, sports, or spending time outdoors.

 

Promote balanced tech use

It’s not necessarily about eliminating tech use, but finding a healthy balance. Encourage students to integrate technology into their lives in a way that complements other activities. For example, using educational apps can be a productive way to use technology, while also ensuring they spend adequate time on physical activities and face-to-face social interactions.

 

Foster open discussions

Create a space where students feel comfortable discussing their tech use and its effects on their lives. Open non-judgmental conversations about the challenges and benefits of technology can help students reflect on their habits and make more informed choices. These conversations can also provide an opportunity to address any issues related to cyberbullying or online safety.

 

Listen to the bell

Using notifications as reminders to practice mindfulness can transform the way students interact with their devices. Instead of reacting impulsively to every alert, encourage them to take a moment to breathe and center themselves every time they hear their phone go off. This mindful pause can help reduce stress, and turn a potential distraction into an opportunity for mindfulness.

 

Teach students mindfulness with Calm Classroom

Calm Classroom makes it simple and easy to start incorporating age-appropriate mindfulness lessons into your classroom right away. Teaching mindfulness in the classroom can be a great way to help students learn this important skill and apply it to every area of life, including their technology use.

 

Get in touch with us to learn more about our training options. 

 

How is your school district dealing with student cell phone use? Let us know in the comments below!