Preventative vs. Prohibitive: Rethinking Smartphone Bans in Schools and Childhood Digital Access

The debate around children’s use of digital devices continues to intensify, with movements like #smartphonefreechildhood gaining traction across the UK and beyond. Governments, schools, and parents are increasingly exploring preventative and prohibitive policies—often outright bans on smartphones and devices during school hours.

Recently, Australia introduced national restrictions on smartphones in schools, adding weight to the global momentum. In the UK, several schools have followed suit, limiting or fully banning devices to curb distractions, cyberbullying, and the mental health challenges linked to social media.

At Liaura, we support the spirit behind these efforts: protecting children from harm and reducing unnecessary digital pressures. However, as with any complex issue, the reality is more nuanced.

The Preventative Approach (Prohibitions & Bans)

• Strengths: Device bans can reduce classroom disruption, encourage face-to-face interaction, and reassure parents worried about online risks.

• Weaknesses: Enforcing bans consistently is difficult. Children may still find workarounds, and bans risk creating a “forbidden fruit” effect, where the absence of digital exposure increases its allure outside controlled settings.

The Long-Term Risks of Prohibitive Policies

Completely restricting digital access risks leaving children unprepared for the digital-first world they will inevitably enter. Skills such as online communication, digital citizenship, media literacy, and safe navigation of social platforms cannot be learned without structured, guided exposure.

The Alternative: Controlled and Appropriate Access

We believe that a balanced approach—where access is allowed but in a supervised, values-led digital environment—is essential. Children need opportunities to practice safe, constructive engagement online, while parents and schools maintain visibility and guidance.

This is where platforms like Liaura play a role. By offering a safe, guardian-managed ecosystem, we give children space to explore social interaction, learning, and creativity—without the risks of open, adult-oriented platforms.

Conclusion

Smartphone bans may reduce risks in the short term, but controlled access on managed devices builds resilience and real-world skills. At Liaura, we believe the path forward is not about preventing children from entering digital spaces, but preparing them to thrive safely within them.