Last week, I had a heart-to-heart with my students about cell phones. In my journalism classes, these devices are off-limits. Back when I started teaching in 1978, phones weren’t an issue at all. But today, it feels like students are more glued to their phones than anything else, maybe even more than their cars.
As we kicked off the 2025 semester, I wanted to stress that it’s not entirely their fault. In this digital age, phones have become a necessity. They help us stay connected, informed, and engaged. But they can also be major distractions, especially in the classroom.
To make it clear, I spell it out on my syllabi: “SMARTPHONES AND SIMILAR DEVICES MUST BE PUT AWAY DURING CLASS. TEXTING OR CHECKING EMAILS IS NOT ALLOWED.” I want my students to focus and truly engage with the material.
I also want to highlight an effort by New York Governor Kathy Hochul. Recently, she pushed for limits on cell phone use in schools from kindergarten through 12th grade. She believes that children learn best when they are focused, rather than scrolling on their phones. While she admits this might make her unpopular, she’s standing by her decision.
One expert on this topic is Dr. Nicholas Kardaras, who has studied tech addiction. He wrote a significant book called *Glow Kids*, which explores the impacts of screen time on kids. He warns that while technology connects us, it also poses serious risks to our younger generation.
In his book, Dr. Kardaras mentions how technology can unexpectedly work against us. He points out the alarming truth: excessive screen exposure can negatively affect a child’s developing brain, sometimes even mirroring the effects of drug addiction.
Dr. Kardaras highlights findings that show screen technology can lead to issues like ADHD, anxiety, and depression. This is especially worrying when considering how young people’s brains are still developing. He argues that kids today are experiencing something akin to a brain on drugs because of their intense screen engagement.
So, what’s the solution? Dr. Kardaras suggests starting with a “tech fast,” or a digital detox. Kids can’t just unplug without having something to replace the screen time. They should dive into new hobbies, revisit old interests, or even volunteer. The goal is to foster real connections with other people and the world around them.
Just last month, Dr. Kardaras shared his insights at Pierson Middle and High School in Sag Harbor, where a local group encourages parents to wait until their kids are in eighth grade before giving them cell phones. It’s all about prioritizing genuine interaction and learning.
As I explain to my students why phones can’t be used in class, it’s clear that these gadgets have woven into every aspect of life. I was reminded of this during a trip to a new seafood place, where I had to scan a QR code with my phone just to order. It’s a far cry from the simple days when I could buy a bowl of lo mein with pocket change.
In today’s world, cell phones are essential. I understand that students see them as a part of their lives. But we all need to adjust our habits and priorities, especially when it comes to our education.
