As a parent of two young children, I am deeply troubled by the increasing use of the internet in our primary schools. My 7-year-old and 10-year-old are exposed to the internet during school hours, where instead of focusing on their studies, they are distracted by online games, scrolling and sending unnecessary emails. Teachers use YouTube videos for teaching that come with advertisements. The gamification of online schoolwork and homework distorts the intrinsic value of learning through rewards and gratification and incentivises screentime.

The digital platforms require our children to agree to cookies and data collection practices they do not fully understand. This raises serious concerns about their digital rights and personal data security.

Studies have shown that excessive screen time can negatively impact children's cognitive development (American Academy of Pediatrics). Additionally, research indicates that traditional teaching methods still play a crucial role in fostering creativity and critical thinking skills (National Education Association).

We want our children to have an education that prioritizes their well-being over convenience or technological trends. We urge educational authorities to reconsider the extensive use of internet in primary school classrooms and homework assignments.

Please sign this petition to reduce internet use in primary education. 

The petition will support letters to local education authorities and our devolved governments. 

A campaign by Sam at Kids For Now