New York state implemented a ban on smartphones in schools this September, leading to a noticeable increase in student interactions and engagement. Intended to create a distraction-free learning environment, this policy has sparked a resurgence in traditional social activities among students, as reported by New York Magazine.
With the prohibition of devices, students are rediscovering the joys of face-to-face interaction. During lunch breaks, activities such as playing cards, board games, and engaging in sports have become commonplace. This shift marks a significant cultural change in schools, where students are embracing old-fashioned forms of entertainment.
At New Heights Academy Charter School in Harlem, senior student Rosalmi remarked, “We’ve had a lot more school spirit. People are more willing to do stuff.” One of her favorite activities without phones is playing dominoes, a game that has gained popularity for both its competitive nature and the lively banter it encourages. “Dominoes is really a staple Dominican game,” she added, highlighting the cultural significance of the pastime.
The impact of the ban extends beyond casual games. Kevin Casado, a coach and teacher at Math, Engineering, and Science Academy Charter High School in Bushwick, noted an increase in volleyball participation, with an even mix of girls and boys engaging in the sport. Meanwhile, students at Brooklyn Technical High School have turned to poker, using hair ties as stakes instead of cash. Such games have attracted spectators, enhancing the social atmosphere.
The initial response to the ban was mixed. Noshin Sayiram, a junior at Stuyvesant High School, expressed that students initially complained about the difficulty of completing homework without their devices. However, she found that printing study guides proved more effective for her learning. “I don’t get distracted by notifications,” she stated, indicating a shift in focus and productivity.
Research indicates that the long-term effects of smartphones and social media on youth are concerning. A study published in the journal Pediatrics revealed that children aged 12 and younger who received smartphones faced increased risks of depression, obesity, and sleep deprivation. The risks intensified the younger the age at which they began using these devices. Another study tracked nine to ten-year-olds over four years and established a strong correlation between excessive screen time and diagnoses of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Yet another study suggested that heavy usage of AI chatbots like ChatGPT might contribute to memory loss and declining academic performance.
While banning phones may seem like a drastic measure, the positive outcomes are hard to overlook. Ninth-grader Aidan Amin from Hunter College High School shared his experience, stating, “I’d say it’s made us closer. Honestly, half the people I’m playing board games with I didn’t know at all before this.” This sentiment reflects a broader trend where students are fostering connections that transcend digital interactions.
As schools across the United States and beyond consider similar bans, the experiences of New York high schools may serve as a model for fostering healthier social environments. The growing evidence of the negative impacts of smartphone use on youth further underscores the potential benefits of such policies. The shift towards more interactive and engaged school cultures could have lasting effects on students’ social development.
