Smartphones are a great way for quick connections and fast access to information. However, a new study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that children younger than age 13 who own a smartphone are more susceptible to serious health effects such as depression, obesity and insufficient sleep.

As children grow in this digital age, Emplify Health has provided some guidance and support to parents on children’s smartphone use.

“All of us can be significantly impacted by easy access to smartphones, and the internet access and social media that come with them,” Emplify Health pediatric psychologist Dr. Tiffany Born said in a news release. “This is even more of a concern for our children and adolescents, whose brains are still developing decision-making and emotional regulation abilities.”

Born added the increased social media usage that often comes with owning a smartphone has been found to exacerbate anxiety, depression and feelings of isolation.

“Social media has us compare our ordinary lives with the carefully crafted ‘highlight reels’ of others,” Born said. “Younger children lack the emotional maturity to process a lot of the content they encounter online, making them more vulnerable to cyberbullying, unrealistic comparisons, and possibly inappropriate content.”

To help parents navigate smartphone use for their younger children, Emplify Health experts recommend —

— Delay smartphone ownership: Postpone giving children a smartphone for as long as you can. If a mobile phone is necessary to stay connected to your child, consider a “dumb,” or basic, feature phone. Many wireless providers offer phones that do not have internet access but still allow calling and texting.

— Establish clear boundaries: Work collaboratively with your child to set healthy and clear boundaries around usage of smartphones and other technology. This can include screen-free zones or specific time limits for when they can use their device. A good rule is to set a “no screens” time of at least one hour before bedtime to improve sleep quality. As much as possible, rules should be in place for everyone in the family (including parents)!

— Create an open communication environment: Make sure your kids feel comfortable and safe discussing smartphone usage or issues. Having honest conversations around the apps they use, who they are communicating with, and what they are seeing can help ensure a safe experience online and with their devices. Have regular check-ins to make sure everyone is up to date on their digital habits. Make it clear that if your child gets into a bad situation online, they can and should come talk to you about it. Stay calm when they bring situations up to increase the likelihood they will continue to do so.

— Be a model for healthy digital habits: Assign rules to yourself to set a good example of digital usage for your child. Children mirror behavior from adults, and by demonstrating healthy screen habits, you can help them make better digital decisions. Prioritize face-to-face interactions and being fully present.

— Encourage offline activities: Promote hobbies and physical activities that get kids away from screens. Reading, sports, crafts and community events are great ways to connect with others while allowing your child to develop interests, talents and skillsets.

“Advice about when to give your child a smartphone is not a topic that you will find in all your ‘how to parent’ books, but it’s a growing concern for many households,” said Rhonda Bryhn, a psychotherapist with Emplify Health by Gundersen. “Setting the tone and expectations for your child, especially your younger ones, will help establish healthier habits early and maintain open and honest conversations.”

Navigating the digital landscape for any parent, regardless of their child’s age, isn’t something they need to do on their own. Parents are encouraged to reach out to their child’s pediatrician or even their own primary care provider for guidance on screen time, smartphone usage or other mental health-related issues.