Swiss Network Urges Families to Reduce Children’s Screen Time

A new regional initiative in French-speaking Switzerland is encouraging parents to reduce children’s exposure to smartphones and digital devices. The campaign aims to promote healthier childhood development and raise awareness about the potential risks of excessive screen use. The network, launched in Geneva alongside partner organizations in Neuchâtel and Fribourg, has introduced two voluntary pledges for families with children under the ages of six and 15. Organizers hope to attract hundreds of families across the participating cantons.

Under the first pledge, parents commit to keeping children under four years old completely away from screens. The initiative also recommends limiting screen use for children between four and six years old to encourage physical activity, communication, and social interaction. Health professionals involved in the project argue that excessive exposure to screens at an early age may affect motor skills, language development, and social communication.

The second pledge focuses on older children and teenagers. Organizers recommend avoiding smartphones before the age of 15 and limiting digital device use to shared family spaces within the home. Instead of smartphones, young people would be encouraged to use basic mobile phones capable of making calls and sending text messages when necessary. Beyond family commitments, the network is calling on Swiss politicians to introduce stricter regulations. Campaign representatives support banning smartphone sales to children under 15 and prohibiting screen use for children under four.

Some advocates are also urging schools to reduce or eliminate tablet use in classrooms, arguing that traditional learning methods remain important for children’s cognitive and social development. The initiative comes as concerns grow over problematic internet use among young people. According to a national study conducted in Switzerland, a significant number of people experience difficulties related to excessive internet use. Supporters believe early intervention can help children develop healthier habits and reduce the risk of digital dependency later in life.