In an era dominated by smartphones, some parents are reverting to traditional landlines as a means of communication for their children to shield them from the digital world’s potential dangers. Lindsay Matheson from Toronto opted for a landline for her tween daughter instead of a smartphone. Growing concerns about online safety are leading parents like Matheson to seek alternative ways for their children to stay connected without being immersed in social media pressures or harmful content.
Similarly, Maggie O’Connor, a friend of Matheson, embraced the idea of a landline to satisfy her daughter’s desire for a phone while avoiding smartphone usage. This shift in parenting reflects a broader trend of parents reconsidering the timing and nature of smartphone introductions to their children.
Maddie Freeman, who received her first cellphone at 12, experienced the pitfalls of excessive social media use firsthand. She founded NoSo November, a non-profit advocating for reduced social media consumption among youth to combat the negative impact on mental health. Isabella Wen, a Grade 12 student, shares similar struggles with smartphone addiction and emphasizes the need for healthier digital habits.
Adam Dubé, an associate professor at McGill University, notes a resurgence in landline usage and the popularity of basic phones without internet access as parents strive to limit screen time for children. He highlights the importance of monitoring content consumption rather than focusing solely on device restrictions.
Dubé stresses the need for digital literacy and responsible device usage, emphasizing the importance of teaching children ethical online behavior and critical content evaluation. While individual choices play a role, Dubé underscores the tech industry’s responsibility in promoting a safer online environment.
Freeman advocates for stricter regulations on tech companies to ensure user safety, as she believes the onus should not solely rest on individuals to cultivate healthier online habits. Despite efforts to build better digital practices, she asserts that meaningful change ultimately lies with tech companies and their profit-driven motives.
