Using Cell Phone Bans to Help Build Resilience 💪🏽

Cell Phone Free Zone

As the new school year kicks off, a growing number of schools across the country are implementing policies that ban cell phones during the school day. This topic recently sparked an interesting conversation within my writer’s group, and it got me thinking about the broader implications of such a change. What are your thoughts on this new policy?

Resilience is a central theme in my book, The Independents, and it’s a concept that I hold close to my heart. I often think of resilience as a muscle—one that strengthens through consistent use and practice. While change can be difficult and sometimes a little scary, it also offers a powerful opportunity for growth. With that in mind, I wanted to share a few positive aspects of the new cell phone bans I see:

• Learning to Embrace Discomfort

We all know how uncomfortable it can be to face new situations. Whether it’s walking into a classroom filled with unfamiliar faces, standing at the bus stop for the first time, or sitting at a new table in the cafeteria, these moments can be challenging. However, they also provide invaluable opportunities for growth. Without the distraction of a phone, students can learn to sit with their discomfort, process their emotions, and build the confidence they need to navigate social situations effectively.

• Practicing Critical Thinking

Smartphones offer quick and easy access to information, but they can also diminish our reliance on critical thinking. It’s easy for students to turn to their phones for instant answers, bypassing figuring things out on their own. Without phones, educators encourage students to engage in problem-solving, experience trial and error, and ultimately strengthen their resilience muscle. This kind of critical thinking is crucial for their development, both in and out of the classroom.

• Building Social Skills

While this ties into the idea of embracing discomfort, the value of social skills deserves its own spotlight. Effective communication is essential in all areas of life—whether in family, work, or personal relationships. By interacting face-to-face, without a phone as a buffer or distraction, kids can practice listening to others, advocating for themselves, and responding with kindness and empathy. These are skills that will serve them well far beyond their school years.

While these changes may present initial challenges, they also offer a unique opportunity for students to build resilience and grow in their ability to handle life’s ups and downs. What do you think? Do you see the potential benefits of these new policies?

Thank you for being part of this journey with me and for your ongoing support of The Independents. I’m always eager to hear your thoughts and experiences, so feel free to share them with me in the comments or through my social media channels. Together, we can continue to explore ways to support the young people in our lives as they navigate these changes.