France bans all children under 15 from using smartphones in school

Overuse of smartphones and its negative impact among children are making one country, in particular, take a huge leap. After teachers from across the globe have taken measures to stop students from checking their smartphones in classrooms, France has banned all children under 15 from using their smartphones in school.

This new cell phone restriction was first implemented in 2010 where smartphones were only banned during class hours. This new law, which was passed in August now extends the prohibition even to breaks and mealtimes. The ban includes tablets and smartwatches, too.

According to the Associated Press, students under 15 must turn their phones off or put them in their lockers. There is, however, an exception to the ban on students with disabilities who requires an extra hand.

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School administrators can, however, choose whether or not to extend the ban to students over 15.

This new law came about after lawmakers were worried about students becoming too dependent on and distracted by their smartphones. "Being open to technologies of the future doesn't mean we have to accept all their uses," stated Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer, news agency Agence France-Presse reported. He praised the legislation as "a law for the 21st century," and claimed it would improve discipline for France's 12 million schoolchildren.

This new smartphone prohibition in France should also awaken adults and to start limiting their smartphone usage as well. Adults as much as children are also affected by these technological advancements that lie at the palm of your hand. A recent survey reports that more people than ever are being injured by their smartphones. Blurred vision, eyestrain, dry eyes, sore neck muscles, declining memory are just a few of the negative impacts from the overuse of smartphones. Perhaps this new law in France is an awakening for all.