Childhood Matters by Bower Education
Welcome to Bower Education's Childhood Matters podcast, presented by hosts Jane Parolin, Sam Payze, and Chelsea Oliver as they delve into the complexities of childcare and child development—covering all the topics that matter to you as a parent. At Childhood Matters, we provide you with the essential tools for parenting, celebrating the wonderful surprises and joys that children bring into our lives.
Childhood Matters by Bower Education
Press Pause: The Movement to Delay Smartphones
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In this episode, we’re joined by Emily from Wait Mate, an inspiring initiative helping families rethink when children should get their first smartphone. Built around a simple but powerful idea strength in numbers, Wait Mate encourages parents within the same school communities to come together and delay smartphone use, creating a shared commitment that supports everyone.
Emily walks us through how the pledge works, why early smartphone access can be challenging for kids, and how a united approach can reduce pressure on both children and parents. We also explore practical ways to start conversations, build momentum within your school, and feel confident in setting boundaries that protect childhood.
This is a thoughtful and empowering conversation for any parent navigating the digital world and looking for a more connected, intentional path forward.
We acknowledge this land that we meet on today is the traditional lands for the Kaurna people and that we respect their spiritual relationship with their country.We also acknowledge the Kaurna people as the custodians of the Adelaide region and that their cultural and heritage beliefs are still as important to the living Kaurna people today.We also pay respects to the cultural authority of Aboriginal people visiting/attending from other areas of South Australia/Australia.
