At CALISCO, we deeply treasure the lives of children—anyone under the age of 16. We believe every child deserves to grow up in an environment that protects their mind, body, and spirit. That’s why we’re committed to helping families navigate the challenges of modern technology, especially when it comes to phones and internet use.
🌱 What You Need to Know About Children and Technology
We live in a digital age, where screens are everywhere—from classrooms to living rooms. But growing evidence shows that excessive phone use can negatively affect children’s learning, behavior, creativity, and relationships. That’s why countries like France, Finland, Sweden, and Russia have already taken strong steps to limit or ban mobile phone use in schools.
📚 In France, children are not allowed to use phones even during break time.
📵 In Finland, mobile phones are restricted during school hours to encourage better focus and interaction.
🧠 In Russia and Sweden, national discussions are ongoing about how to reduce screen time for better child development.
(Cited: The Guardian, EHTrust, 2025)
💡 Our Position at CALISCO
We don’t promote phone or internet use for children under 16. Not because we’re against technology—but because we believe in strong, healthy social development that happens through human connection, not screens.
Here’s what we focus on instead:
- 🏡 Strengthening family time through play, conversation, chores, and shared meals
- 🎨 Encouraging talent and soft skills like drawing, singing, storytelling, sports, and responsibility
- 👪 Building character through real-life interactions with parents, caregivers, and peers
- 🤝 Promoting community support, traditions, and values that guide healthy behavior
📸 Sharing Children’s Stories—Through Adults
Even though we don’t promote children using phones, we welcome parents and caregivers to share the positive stories of children’s growth. These could include:
- What activities they’re enjoying at home or in church
- What new skills they’re learning
- How they are growing in kindness, obedience, or responsibility
This way, children remain visible, celebrated, and heard, without needing to be exposed to harmful digital environments.
🛡️ Why It Matters
We know that socialization shapes a child’s future. But healthy socialization happens in-person, not online. Children need:
- Physical interaction
- Face-to-face mentorship
- Safe, structured play
- Encouragement rooted in love and values
Phones can interrupt this growth. That’s why our call is to preserve childhood, protect innocence, and prioritize real relationships over digital distractions.
🌍 What Can Communities Do?
We invite churches, schools, neighbors, and extended families to take collective responsibility in supporting parents and caregivers. Together, we can:
- Create phone-free zones for children
- Provide alternative creative spaces for kids to explore talents
- Celebrate values like sharing, compassion, discipline, and joy
🧩 Final Thought
True growth doesn’t come from swiping screens—it comes from holding hands, sharing smiles, and listening with love.
At CALISCO, we are building a future where children thrive not through technology, but through connection—with their families, with their faith, and with their God-given potential.