Smartphone Free Childhood began with a conversation between two parents and has exploded into a nationwide campaign that’s captured headlines, inspired school reforms and signed up tens of thousands of familiesWhen the history of social change campaigns of the early 21st century is written, it’s sure to include Smartphone Free Childhood (SFC). In the UK, 89% of 12-year-olds now own a phone – as do a quarter of children between five and seven. The last few years have seen a mounting wave of worry over what the tech is doing to childhood. In the UK, 89% of 12-year-olds now own a phone – as do a quarter of children between five and seven. Thinking about the smartphone future that might lie in wait for their three children, they didn’t debate for long.