But it is more than just an intellectual exercise for the Princess of Wales. Prince William has recently revealed that none of their children is allowed a smart phone as they encourage quality, screen-free family time at home.
As Kate Middleton explains in her essay, ‘When we check our phones during conversations, scroll through social media during family dinners, or respond to e-mails while playing with our children, we’re not just being distracted, we are withdrawing the basic form of love that human connection requires.’
The Prince and Princess of Wales, pictued in December 2024, are united in their desire for devices not to interrupt quality family time
Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images
She explains the contradiction at the heart of smart devices, saying they are designed to encourage connectivity but ‘frequently do the opposite’. Pointing to research evidence, the Princess of Wales says creating health and nurturing relationships within families and between loved ones has lifelong health benefits.
The essay was published ahead of a visit to an early years centre in Oxford on Thursday.
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