Cell phones have become an essential part of daily life, including for children and teenagers (of all ages). However, their uncontrolled use in schools can pose a number of challenges for students, educators, and families. If we think about it for a moment, we can already list a few:

• Distractions during class:

One of the biggest challenges is the difficulty of keeping students fully engaged. When cell phones aren’t used in a guided manner, students may end up scrolling through social media platforms like TikTok or Instagram—or even playing games—while the teacher is explaining the material. This directly impacts learning, as it shifts their focus away from the content toward activities unrelated to the lesson.

• Social distancing:

Excessive cell phone use also affects social interaction among students. During breaks or recess, instead of interacting with one another, many students remain isolated behind their screens.

This creates a quieter school environment, with empty playgrounds and courts, and eliminates the social interaction that is so important for the development of social and emotional skills.

• Impact on classroom dynamics:

The presence of cell phones can hinder interaction between teachers and students. Instead of actively participating in discussions or paying attention to explanations, students may become distracted by messages or notifications, disrupting the planned flow of the lesson.

• Mental health risks:

The indiscriminate use of cell phones can exacerbate problems such as anxiety and difficulty concentrating. In addition, constant exposure to social media can affect self-esteem and lead to harmful comparisons, especially among teenagers.

• Challenges for Educators

Teachers face the challenge of managing cell phone use in the classroom, which can lead to conflicts and make time management difficult. It is necessary to establish clear rules so that technology is viewed as a supportive tool rather than a distraction.

We need to analyze this issue by examining current legislation, educational guidelines, and strategies for promoting a healthy school environment with regard to the use of technology.

What does the law say?

Law No. 15,100, dated January 13, 2025, and Decree No. 12,385/2025 establish clear guidelines regarding the use of cell phones and other electronic devices in elementary and middle schools. The main objective is to protect the mental, physical, and psychological health of children and adolescents.

According to the law, the use of cell phones is permitted:

• During educational activities, always under the supervision and with the permission of the teacher, as part of the lesson plan.
• In emergency situations, when strictly necessary.
• To promote accessibility.

On the other hand, the use of cell phones is prohibited:

• During classes, recess, and breaks, except when used for educational purposes.

Recent CNE Guidelines

The National Education Council (CNE) has issued new guidelines to help schools address the issue of cell phones. The focus is on guiding and supporting educators, as well as raising awareness about the negative impacts of excessive screen time. Experts warn of the risks of anxiety, depression, and socialization difficulties that can arise from this habit.

See also:

• Why should we be careful with AI and image generation?
• (Self-)Teacher Training: Growing in 2025—Go Wherever You Want!
• The Rise of Generation Beta: A Lighthearted Analysis of the Digitally Immersed

Strategies for Harmonious Coexistence

• Awareness:Organize lectures, discussions, and fun activities that address the responsible and safe use of cell phones.
• Training: Offer courses and workshops for educators and students on how to use technology responsibly.
• Open Dialogue: Creating Spaces for Conversations About the Challenges and Consequences of Excessive Cell Phone Use.
• Mediation: facilitating conflict resolution and promoting the balanced use of technology, always in line with the National Common Core Curriculum (BNCC).

Tips for Schools

To address the challenges posed by cell phone use in schools, it is essential that educational institutions adopt clear strategies that are aligned with educational guidelines.

The first step is for administrators and educators to familiarize themselves with the MEC guidelines and the school’s internal rules, ensuring a consistent approach to the use of technology in the school environment. It is important that cell phones not be viewed merely as sources of distraction, but as allies when used creatively and purposefully.

Teachers, for example, can plan educational activities that incorporate the use of cell phones, such as quick research projects, interactive quizzes, or collaborative projects that encourage digital learning. This not only engages students but also teaches them how to use technology productively and responsibly.

In addition, educators should serve as role models for the mindful use of technology. Demonstrating balance in the use of devices can inspire students to adopt healthier and more functional practices with their own devices. Through these actions, schools can turn cell phones into tools that support learning, rather than obstacles in the classroom.

Tips for Families

To promote healthy cell phone use among children, it is essential for families to maintain anopen dialogueabout the risks and benefits of technology. Talking about online experiences, the challenges of social media, and the dangers of excessive screen time can help children and teens develop a critical perspective on cell phone use.

In addition, it is important for families to set clear limits and rules for device use. Establishing specific times for cell phone use—such as during meals or before bedtime—can help balance screen time with other activities, such as studying and face-to-face interactions.

Finally, it is essential to monitor what your children access online. This does not mean invading their privacy, but rather guiding them on what is safe and appropriate.

Using parental control apps can be a useful tool for ensuring that children use the internet safely and responsibly. In this way, families can contribute to healthy and balanced development in the digital age.

Suggestions for all ages

 Tips for all ages: striking a balance between the analog and digital worlds.

• Young children (ages 0–5):  

Analog: Prioritize outdoor play, such as running, jumping rope, playing in the sand, or using toys that promote motor skill development, such as building blocks and shape-sorting games.  

Digital: If necessary, choose interactive apps designed to support child development, set a time limit (no more than 1 hour per day), and always ensure adult supervision.

• Children (ages 6–10):  

Analog: Encourage activities such as reading physical books, drawing, painting, board games, and team sports. These activities foster creativity and social development.

Digital: Introduce educational apps that teach math, languages, or science in a fun way. Make sure screen time is balanced and that the content is age-appropriate.

• Adolescents (ages 11–18):  

Analog: Encourage discussions at home or at school about everyday topics, reading books, creative writing, or sports activities that promote socialization. Also encourage non-digital hobbies, such as playing musical instruments or doing crafts.  

Digital: Guide students in the responsible use of social media, discussing its impact on mental health and self-esteem. Emphasize the importance of consuming positive, high-quality content. Digital tools for organizing studies or learning new skills (such as programming or video editing) can also be helpful.

• Adults (18 and older):  

Analog: Make time for offline hobbies, such as reading, gardening, exercising, getting together with friends, or hands-on activities like cooking or painting. These moments help you relax and unwind. 

Digital: Use technology purposefully—such as to learn something new through online courses, organize your daily routine with productivity apps, or explore wellness platforms—but don’t let your cell phone take up all your free time.

The secret lies in balance! Combining analog and digital activities for each age group can contribute to healthy development and a more mindful relationship with technology. After all, both the physical and digital worlds have a lot to offer—you just need to know how to use each one at the right time!

Conclusion: The Importance of the Topic

The use of cell phones in schools is an issue that affects us directly! By approaching this topic in a lighthearted and humorous way, we can work together to create a healthier and happier school environment.

How about starting a conversation about mindful cell phone use at your school or with your family? Share this article with your friends, and let’s work together to build a more balanced digital future!

About the author:

*This text does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Bett Brasil.

Share on social media: