French Expert Panel Urges Ban on Smartphone Use for Children Under 13, Calls for Regulation of Social Media Access Until 18

In a decisive move to combat the effects of screen technology on the youth, a French expert panel, established by President Emmanuel Macron, has proposed a ban on smartphone usage for children under 13 and the regulation of their social media access until the age of 18. The recommendations come after a comprehensive three-month study on how digital interfaces affect children and teenagers.

The findings and recommendations were detailed in a 142-page report titled "Children and Screens: In Search of Lost Time," unveiled on Tuesday. This significant report emphasizes the urgent need to reevaluate the digital exposure among the youth, highlighting a series of age-targeted restrictions to ensure their mental and physical well-being.

For children under 11, the experts strongly advise against the use of mobile phones altogether. They recommend that access to social media should be completely forbidden for those under 13, and between ages 15 to 18, social media use should be permitted only for those who demonstrate a capacity for "ethical thinking."

Furthermore, the report advises parents of very young children, particularly those under three years old, to avoid screen exposure entirely. For children older than six, it suggests strict regulations and limits on screen time, emphasizing the necessity of guided and mindful usage to mitigate potential negative impacts.

This bold stance by the French committee aligns with growing global concerns about the early exposure of children to digital devices and the internet, which have been linked to various developmental issues and mental health problems. The proposed measures reflect a proactive approach to safeguard future generations from the pervasive influence of technology.