Should smartphones be banned for under 16s?

Smartphones have worked their way deep into our lives and have become indispensable for work and socialising.

Many parents worry they are addictive and expose children to harmful content.

A growing number think stronger restrictions are needed for children's use of smartphones.

Others argue some of the risks are overblown and that the evidence of harm is not as convincing nor conclusive as critics suggest.

Daisy says children need better protections, for sure, and yes, the present situation is problematic for many and dangerous for some.

Daisy says the public is crying out for something to change, but we need to take a step back and question the societal norm, which is to give children smartphones when they’re younger and younger.

Sonia says social media platforms can prove they are safe for children, children shouldn’t be on them.

We need to question the assumption that all technological advancement is social progress.

Kids don’t actually need to be connected to the internet 24/7 , says Daisy .

A five-year-old can learn how to use Instagram in four minutes - that’s really not a valid argument.