Answer:
See Below
Step-by-step explanation:
Background
Good afternoon, everyone. Today, I would like to talk about the topic of whether children under 12 should be allowed to own a cell phone or other smart device.
Claim
I firmly believe that children under 12 should not be allowed to own a cell phone or other smart device.
Reason 1
Firstly, young children are not mature enough to handle the responsibilities that come with owning a cell phone or smart device. For example, they may not understand the importance of protecting personal information, which can put them at risk of identity theft or other online dangers.
Evidence 1
According to a study conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics, children who spent more than two hours a day on screen time scored lower on language and thinking tests than children who spent less time on screens.
Reason 2
Secondly, cell phones and smart devices can be a major distraction for young children, which can negatively impact their development and learning. Rather than interacting with their surroundings, children may become more focused on their devices, leading to less time for play and exploration, which are critical for their growth and development.
Evidence 2
The World Health Organization recommends that children under 5 should spend no more than one hour a day on screens, while children between 5 and 12 should have no more than two hours of screen time per day.
Counterclaim
Some may argue that cell phones and smart devices can be useful tools for parents to stay connected with their children and monitor their activities.
Rebuttal
While it's true that cell phones and smart devices can provide a sense of security for parents, there are other ways for parents to stay connected with their children, such as regular check-ins, setting boundaries, and using other forms of communication like landlines and email.
Call to Action
I urge you to consider the negative effects that cell phones and smart devices can have on young children and support policies that limit their use by children under 12. Together, we can create a safer, healthier, and more productive environment for our children to thrive in.