Ep. 218: Is Documentation a “Benefit” of Smartphones for Kids?

Ep. 218: Is Documentation a “Benefit” of Smartphones for Kids?

From Brave Parenting by Brave Parenting

April 15, 2026 · 44 min

About this episode

Kelly evaluates the benefits and drawbacks of smartphone documentation for kids from various perspectives.

A smartphone lets you document life with an ever-present camera and note-taking capabilities. Is this something beneficial for kids? Will it build character? Will it help them be present and more aware of their reality? On the other hand, what does growing up not having access to these smartphone features lead to? Will they be worse off? Have less documented memories? In today’s episode, Kelly evaluates this claimed benefit of “documentation” from both Dr. Peter Gray’s perspective and historical and biblical perspectives. Articles referenced: Helping Kids (and Ourselves) Use Smartphones Safely Mobile Photography Stats for 2026 What Selfies are Doing to Self-Esteem Junk Journaling Camp Snap Camera Camp Snap Video Camera Scripture referenced: Deuteronomy 6:6-7 Matthew 6:1 Galatians 1:10 1 Peter 3:3-4 1 Corinthians 10:31 John 13:34 Galatians 5:13 Romans 12:10 Colossians 3:16 1 Corinthians 13:6 Proverbs 6:16-19 Need a kids-safe phone? Pinwheel is our favorite! Book a Speaking Event!! Buy the NEWLY UPDATED book : Managing Media Creating Character (2024 Revised & Updated) Get Kelly’s new Study Guide & Workbook , with video teachings for small…

People in this episode

Hosts: Kelly, Peter Gray

Topics covered

  • smartphones
  • documentation
  • kids
  • parenting
  • character building

Keywords

  • character
  • awareness
  • memories
  • historical perspectives
  • biblical perspectives

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Pinwheel, Camp Snap Camera, Camp Snap Video Camera

Books & works: Managing Media Creating Character, Brave Parenting Merch

More episodes of Brave Parenting

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Brave Parenting podcast page.