Googling test answers, scrolling Instagram during breaks, playing games during lessons, and falling asleep to ASMR—these are just a few examples of how an increasing number of children and teenagers are struggling with mobile phone addiction. Parents and teachers are raising concerns, noting that it has become difficult for young people to even eat without checking social media. This addiction is taking a toll on both academic performance and relationships with peers and family.

In response to this growing issue, the Finnish government is considering a ban on mobile phones in schools. Kristiina Järvelä, the head of primary education for the city of Tampere, told Yle.fi: "The idea is to set aside phones and give nature and the world a chance."

She hopes banning phones will encourage children to engage more in learning, playing, and building peer relationships. However, Järvelä acknowledges that implementing the ban among teenagers could be challenging: "If phones are taken away, indifferent teens may still sulk on the playground." She also cautions that an outright ban on mobile phones may not have entirely positive outcomes.

The Finnish National Agency for Education (EDUFI) urges local governments to introduce mobile phone use regulations in schools. However, the idea of an all-day ban on phones poses challenges. Currently, schools can impose restrictions on smartphone use during lessons, but they cannot enforce a ban throughout the entire school day. This limitation stems from students' rights to property and freedom of expression, as students who bring phones to school cannot be forcibly deprived of them.

EDUFI has proposed a plan to address the issue. The agency suggests that teachers should intervene with pupils who persistently use their phones, citing the right to a peaceful learning environment, which must be ensured for all students.

During a press conference, Laura Francke, Education Counsellor at EDUFI, stated: "We recommend that all schools and educational institutions prohibit disruptive phone use during lessons and limit its use during breaks according to current legislation while we await the new, refined legislation."

Source: Gazeta Wyborcza