They are separate issues in that the article is not about parenting skills. Each parent sets his or her own boundaries, decides what is right and wrong for their children and will define what priveleges they have - including a cell phone. That is entirely a different matter, and not the point of the article. I could write an article about whether cell phones is a good idea for kids, and we would probably agree on that.
This particular issue is an indictment on decaying values and the loss of will to enforce authority.
The key issue with me is the “lesson” or “value” being taught to the child - namely, no discipline or restraint needed. We’ll just disallow it.
I do sincerely appreciate your perspective very much. You are thoughtful, indeed.
” You are thoughtful, indeed “
More ‘old’ than ‘thoughtful’, probably....
I compare/contrast the joys of my childhood (not affluent) with the absolute grimness that I observe in the world around me today — and I shudder.....