navigate the real world - within a somewhat controlled environment.
Having smartphones has its headaches, sure. And I have no doubt my kids look at and say things they shouldn’t. But that’s part of life. Overall, having phones has been a net benefit to our kids’ social development.
I compare your approach to parents who won’t let their kids have any sugar. Well, who do you think is going to have problems with sugar when they get older? Moderation is almost always a better approach long-term.