Parenting is a challenging journey. Every new generation encounters unique challenges and hurdles as they navigate the path of making choices they believe will benefit their children. In today’s fast-paced world, parents find themselves grappling with the challenges of the internet and smartphones, while also being caught up in the ongoing discussions surrounding screen time.

A mother named Laura Muse ignited a passionate discussion when she openly confessed to checking her children’s phones in order to stay updated on their activities and social interactions.
Parents are finding it more and more challenging to resist giving their children smartphones. Phones have become an essential aspect of our daily lives, and children are fully aware of their significance. Although it’s generally recommended to hold off on getting your child a smartphone, it’s only natural to be curious about how they’re using the internet with such immediate access. However, it is important to consider the balance between parental caution and respecting a child’s privacy.

In 2022, Laura Muse stirred up controversy online when she disclosed her practice of regularly monitoring her teenage children’s phones. Laura justified her actions by asserting that she covers the cost of the phones, thus giving her the authority to monitor them. In order to prevent late-night scrolling, she makes sure her children hand in their phones before bed.
Laura, a mental health clinician in her 40s, began monitoring her children’s phones when they were 11 years old and continued doing so throughout their teenage years.

As a concerned parent, she wants to ensure her children’s safety online and protect them from potential dangers. Laura sees any concerning situation as an opportunity to have a meaningful conversation with her children.

While Laura’s approach is generally well-received, there are some who argue that being overly watchful as a parent can be seen as an attack on privacy. Some argue that a child’s phone, like their room, is their private space and should not be invaded by parents. This debate has gained significant traction on platforms such as TikTok, where users are actively sharing their perspectives on parental phone monitoring.

What are your thoughts on this debate? Should parents have the authority to access their children’s smartphones? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section.