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The first iPhone came out in 2007, when this year’s graduating high school seniors were toddlers learning to speak. Today, almost all high school students (95 percent) have access to a smartphone, 

Scrolling through social media posts has become central to young people’s lives, but there’s also a growing conversation about the downsides. Constant connectivity is linked to an increase in teen mental health struggles, attention problems and slumps in academic achievement.

The issue got more attention at the state Capitol this year too. Lawmakers passed legislation that requires schools to have cellphone policies in place by next spring.

 talks about how lawmakers, parents, educators and teens themselves are trying to better manage screen time for their wellbeing. 

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Are smartphones and social media making kids distracted and anxious? MPR News correspondent and guest host Catharine Richert talks with lawmakers, parents and students about when kids should get a smartphone and why some schools are restricting them.

Should families and schools restrict smartphones?

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Should families and schools restrict smartphones?

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