The Challenge: Buzz Buzz Buzz

Classrooms today are navigating a constant tension between connection and distraction. Phone use can interrupt concentration, reduce participation, and make it harder for students to stay engaged. Teachers are managing divided attention. Students are balancing social pressure with learning demands. Parents and policymakers are asking how schools can best support focus, well-being, and academic success in a digital world.

There’s growing evidence, and growing student voice, suggesting that intentional phone-free time during the school day can help.

The Evidence

Recent research shows that Canadian adolescents’ average daily screen time has increased from six hours in 2018 to nearly eight hours in 2022, exceeding national recommendations by nearly four times and highlighting a growing reliance on digital devices. 

Excessive screen time has been linked to a range of adverse health and academic outcomes, including lower standardized test scores, increased anxiety, depression, aggression, poor sleep, and a higher risk of obesity, according to a growing body of research.

Youth in Canada face more online harms, with exposure to hate speech, violent content, and personal harassment 30–50% higher among those aged 16 to 29 compared to the rest of the population.

A 2025 Dais Survey found that nearly eight in 10 Canadians support a cell phone ban in K-12 classrooms.
In response, provinces across Canada have initiated various phone-free classroom policies to limit in-class distractions and refocus students on learning. However, cell phone restrictions vary not only by province but often by school district, leaving many teachers and classroom staff unsupported to enforce new measures.

Why It Matters

Phone-free learning time has been shown to support:

• Stronger focus and memory
• More active participation in class
• Better peer connection and classroom culture
• Reduced stress and digital pressure
• A healthier relationship with technology over time

Taking Action Together

We’re tackling this urgent challenge by:

Mobilizing for phone-free classrooms: supporting parents, educators, school boards, and governments with information, policy guidance, training, and impact tracking on phone restrictions in K-12 classrooms across Canada. 
Leading a Youth Champions Program: equipping high school students in every province to engage their peers, and advocate for positive change, about school phone policies and building healthier digital habits.