Reykjavik Primary Schools to Implement Phone-Free Time

Reykjavik's city council has approved a directive that will see all primary schools in the capital implement phone-free time beginning in the fall of 2026. The policy requires students to refrain from using mobile phones and similar smart devices during school hours, including breaks and lunch, unless permitted by staff or an exception applies. Each school will establish its own protocols for secure phone storage throughout the day.

The city will collaborate with the university community to conduct a two-year evaluation of the policy's impact. This study will examine effects on academic performance, student well-being, and the professional environment for teachers and staff, among other factors. The directive stems from concerns about how smartphone usage affects learning, concentration, social interaction, and overall student welfare.

Mayor Hildur Björnsdóttir stated that school should serve as a sanctuary for learning and social development, free from constant digital distractions. "Phone-free time in primary schools is fundamentally about providing children with a better space to learn, play, and connect with one another," she said. The mayor emphasized that the initiative is evidence-based and aims to create a healthy environment that supports both children's welfare and effective schooling, rather than rejecting technology.

Reykjavik's plan aligns with a draft regulation on phone-free time in primary schools being developed by the Ministry of Education and Children. The initiative also reflects guidance from UNESCO, which in its 2023 global education report highlighted the need for technology use in teaching to be clearly linked to learning objectives. UNESCO warned against the negative impacts of excessive or inappropriate device use, including cyberbullying and adverse effects on young people's self-image and well-being.

The policy mandates that phone restrictions must be grounded in children's welfare, have a clearly defined purpose, and be developed in consultation with students, parents, and staff. Reasonable exceptions for factors like learning needs or health requirements will be provided. The city also plans to enhance facilities for social interaction, games, and outdoor play to encourage participation and strengthen social skills.