The recent article, Australia’s Audacious Social Media Ban Is Almost Here, highlights the impact of intentionally limiting social media use for children prior to age 16 and the encouraging outcomes that can follow.
When screen-based entertainment is reduced, families often see children naturally turn toward other meaningful activities. In recent months, booksellers have reported increased interest in books, puzzles, and games, suggesting children and teens rediscover the joys of offline engagement. Parents appear to be making intentional choices that foster creativity, attention, and confidence. All skills essential for long-term growth.
The article also highlights concerning trends in reading and literacy nationwide. In 1976, about 40 % of high school seniors reported reading at least six books for pleasure in the previous year, compared to only about 11 % who hadn’t read any. By 2022, those numbers had flipped. Additionally, around 40 % of fourth graders and one-third of eighth graders fail to meet basic literacy proficiency, according to national assessment data. These shifts reflect a broader cultural decline in sustained reading, which affects critical thinking, empathy, and the ability to process complex ideas.
One key insight is that screens often replace other activities, not just add to them. Reading requires attention and perseverance, and when screens are readily available, reading becomes harder to choose. 
Children who grow up seeing adults read for pleasure are far more likely to become readers themselves. Books offer something screens cannot: deep immersion, reflection, and the ability to step into another person’s perspective.
Delaying social media use is not an act of deprivation but one of generosity by creating space for imagination, curiosity, and growth that supports literacy and lifelong learning.
As a school, we are grateful for families who thoughtfully steward technology and partner with us in cultivating habits that nurture reading, focus, and discernment.
