Chile Just Banned Smartphones in Class—Here’s What Teachers Are Hiding From Parents!

SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) — In a significant move aimed at addressing classroom distractions and enhancing student mental health, Chile has enacted a law prohibiting the use of mobile phones and other smart devices in elementary and middle schools. This law, set to take effect in 2026, reflects a growing global trend toward restricting smartphone use among younger students.

The law received overwhelming support from lawmakers after a lengthy debate in the lower house of Congress, following a preliminary approval by the Senate earlier this year. The legislation permits exceptions for emergencies and specific educational uses, ensuring that technology can still play a role in learning when necessary. It now awaits the signature of President Gabriel Boric to become official.

Education Minister Nicolás Cataldo articulated the rationale behind this legislative change, stating, “We are advancing a cultural change for children and adolescents who today, more than ever, need to see each other’s faces again, socialize during recess, and regain concentration to further boost learning.” This sentiment resonates with many parents and educators who have long lobbied for a ban on smartphones in schools, citing the adverse effects on students’ learning and emotional development.

Chile joins a growing list of countries, including France, Brazil, Hungary, the Netherlands, and China, that have implemented varying degrees of restrictions on smartphone usage in educational settings. The move is fueled by increasing concerns over the impact of digital devices on young people's mental health. According to a recent international study conducted by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), more than half of all Chilean students reported that digital devices disrupt their learning.

One school in Santiago, the capital of Chile, has already launched a successful pilot program that blocks cellphone signals, demonstrating a proactive approach to creating an environment conducive to learning. This initiative has garnered positive feedback from both parents and students, who note improvements in focus and social interactions during school hours.

As the debate over smartphone use in schools continues, the Chilean government’s decision reflects a broader understanding of the challenges faced by educators in the digital age. With technology increasingly integrated into daily life, striking a balance between its benefits and potential distractions is crucial for fostering effective learning environments. The upcoming implementation of this law may serve as a pivotal moment for educational policy in Chile and could inspire similar actions in other jurisdictions grappling with the same issues.

As the 2026 school year approaches, the implications of this law will be closely monitored, not only within Chile but also as part of a larger conversation about the role of technology in education worldwide. The successful execution of this policy may pave the way for further reforms aimed at enhancing student well-being and academic performance in an increasingly digital world.