In an era where mobile phones are a natural part of everyday life from an early age, it is more important than ever to have clear advice and boundaries. Both children and young people need guidance on how to manage screen use in a healthy way – not only to avoid addiction and poor sleep, but to build good habits that strengthen concentration, mental health and relationships.
Many countries, such as France and Denmark, have already introduced clear guidelines for children and young people’s screen time. In France, a national expert group has recommended a step-by-step approach based on age and maturity, where access to technology and social media is gradually increased. In addition, parents and professionals in Norway have started to collect and disseminate advice to help families make good choices in their digital lives.
Here is a set of recommended mobile phone advice for children and young people – based on a combination of international recommendations, Norwegian practice and common sense:
0–3 years: No screen use, not even TV
The youngest children need presence, language and physical play – not screens. Early exposure can impair the development of language and social skills.
3–6 years: Very limited screen time
Use screens with an adult and in short, meaningful sessions. Content should be educational, age-appropriate, and ad-free.
6–11 years:
- Avoid smartphones – possibly just a simple phone for contact
- No access to social media
- Follow age restrictions for games and apps
- Use content filters to protect against harmful content
- Set limits on screen time using tools like Screen Time and Google Family Link
- Make your child's room screen-free and have screen-free meals
- Turn off screens one hour before bed for better sleep
12–14 years:
- Gradual introduction of smartphones – without social media
- Guidance and security are more important than complete freedom
- Conversations about online etiquette, privacy and how digital media affects self-image and concentration
- Limit access to apps with algorithmically driven content that can easily create addiction
15–17 years:
- Access to some social media, but with clear limits
- Avoid the most addictive platforms (TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat)
- Screen-free zones and times should be continued – e.g. at mealtimes and before bedtime
- Continue the conversations about digital judgment, self-image, and influence
From 18 years:
- Even authoritative users still need awareness of how technology shapes us
- Learn to set limits for yourself, take breaks and question your own screen use.
- Time thieves, algorithms and digital addiction can also affect adults
Advice for parents and guardians:
- Be good role models in your own screen use
- Talk to your children regularly about what they see and do online.
- Set boundaries with love and security – not just control
- Stay up to date with your children's digital lives and show interest without monitoring.
- Remember that real presence cannot be replaced by screens
The goal is not to shield children from everything digital, but to equip them to navigate wisely – with security, balance and a heart for what really matters.
“Everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible, but not everything builds up.”"”
1 Corinthians 10:23
📚 Research and sources:
- The Guardian (2024): Expert group advice in France on mobile phone use for children and young people
- Children and the Media Survey (Norwegian Media Authority, 2022 and 2024): Insight into Norwegian children's media habits and parents' challenges
- Babysitting.no: Practical tips and guidance for safe media use in the family
