Bill Gates Shares Optimal Age for Children to Start Using Smartphones

 

Tech Titan Bill Gates Advocates for Later Smartphone Use for Children

Seattle, WA - In a move that might surprise some, Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, has come out in favor of delaying smartphone access for children. Gates, whose company revolutionized personal computing, reportedly limited his own children's phone use until they reached 14 years old.

Citing the importance of healthy sleep habits and reduced screen time, Gates highlights potential drawbacks of early smartphone exposure.

While his children are now past the age for phone restrictions, Gates' household reportedly maintains limitations on Apple products, likely stemming from his well-documented professional rivalry with the late Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple.

Gates' approach finds support from child development experts. Dr. James P. Steyer, CEO of Common Sense Media, emphasizes that a child's maturity level, rather than just age, should be a key factor when deciding on smartphone readiness.

PBS Parents, a trusted resource for families, echoes this sentiment. They advise parents to consider a child's independence, responsibility, and ability to manage online safety before handing them a phone.