Children who start using smartphones before age 12 may face increased risks of depression, obesity, and sleep problems compared with kids who get phones later, a new study reports. Published Monday in Pediatrics, the research drew on data from over 10,500 children in what is the largest long-term U.S. study on childhood brain development, The New York Times notes.
The younger a child is when they receive a smartphone, the higher their likelihood of experiencing these health concerns — though the researchers stress the study shows a link, not proof of direct cause and effect. Experts suggest early smartphone use might reduce time spent on physical activity, face-to-face social interaction, and sufficient sleep — all essential for healthy growth.
Lead author Dr. Ran Barzilay described giving a child a phone as “a significant health decision” and urged parents to carefully weigh the risks before handing over a device. The study found the median age for first smartphone ownership was 11. Barzilay acknowledged that two of his own children had phones before age 12, and said he hopes families and policymakers “do something about it together.”
Disrupted sleep was among the most serious concerns. A 2023 study found many 11- and 12-year-olds keep electronic devices in their bedrooms and are often awakened by notifications. Additionally, smartphone use may increase exposure to social-comparison pressures and cyberbullying, according to reporting by CNN — which underscores the importance of parents discussing phone habits with their children.