Images are also a huge part of messaging. For memes obviously, but also other communication (here’s the flyer for the event, look what the teacher wrote on my exam, should I get this gift for mom, look what my significant other sent me — what do you think I should say?), etc.

Parents need to weigh potential otracization against the cost of giving a smart device, which could be as high as ending their normal childhood development.

Personally I think no phones until 16 is a good rule.

I knew so many kids that got into selling cigarettes, alcohol, or weed because their parents did not want to buy them things that would facilitate social integration. Most optimistically, if you don't give a kid a smart phone then they're going to mow lawns or something and get one and hide it; that scenario isn't really a bad one.

> Because of the ostracization problem. Kids are ruthless, and failure to conform is swiftly punished.

Shocker, but those are probably not the people you are going to give a shit about after you leave school.