Sweden Advises Children Under 13 To Stay Away From Smartphones. Here's Why Health Experts Are Paying Attention

For

years, the debate around children's screen time has centred on one question: how young is too young for a smartphone? Sweden believes it may have found an answer.The country's Public Health Agency has advised parents not to give children their own smartphones before the age of 13, arguing that the potential harms associated with the devices outweigh their benefits during early childhood. The recommendation is part of a broader effort by Swedish authorities to understand how screens are affecting children's health, behaviour and development.

What Sweden Authorities Have Advised

In its guidance, the agency said the aim is 'primarily to reduce the risk of children being exposed to harmful content, developing sleep problems, or developing an addiction-like pattern of use.' The agency acknowledged that smartphones can help children stay in touch with family and friends and offer a sense of security. However, officials said interviews with children and existing research pointed to a growing list of concerns linked to early smartphone use. "Use is associated with distraction, social pressure, and exposure to harmful content and harmful contacts," the agency noted. It also highlighted evidence connecting smartphone use with poorer sleep quality. That concern is not unique to Sweden.

What Other Researchers Have Found

Paediatricians and sleep researchers around the world have increasingly warned about the impact of screens on children's rest. Smartphones place an endless stream of content just inches from a child's face, often encouraging longer periods of use than intended. Notifications, videos and social media activity can make it difficult for young users to switch off, particularly at night.

Sleep specialists say insufficient sleep in children can affect memory, concentration, emotional regulation and overall well-being. Over time, poor sleep habits may also contribute to stress and behavioural challenges. Rather than recommending a complete communication blackout, Swedish officials have suggested a simpler alternative. Parents who believe their children need a phone are encouraged to consider basic devices that allow calling and texting but do not provide unrestricted internet access.Olivia Wigzell, director of the Public Health Agency of Sweden, said the advice is intended to help families navigate a challenge many parents are already struggling with. "Our hope is that the recommendation will serve as support in everyday life," she said, adding that Sweden's position is broadly in line with approaches being taken in neighbouring Denmark and Finland.

All About The Recommendation

The recommendation arrives as governments across Europe continue to reassess the role of smartphones in childhood. Earlier this year, Sweden announced plans to ban smartphones in schools through grade nine, covering students up to roughly 15 or 16 years old. The country's health authorities have also turned their attention to adults. In June, the agency urged parents to put down their own phones more often when spending time with their children, highlighting concerns that excessive screen use can affect family interactions and emotional connection.

The conversation around smartphones and children is unlikely to end anytime soon. Technology remains deeply woven into daily life, and many parents view phones as an important safety tool. Still, Sweden's latest recommendation reflects a growing belief among public health experts that delaying smartphone ownership, even by a few years, could help children develop healthier relationships with technology before they are exposed to the pressures and distractions of the online world.