Cornwall Council is launching a new public health campaign encouraging parents and caregivers to put down their phones and connect with their children through simple, everyday moments.
The campaign, entitled “Phones Away – Talk and Play”, highlights the vital role that face-to-face interaction plays in early childhood development.
Funded by the UK Government’s Best Start in Life programme, the campaign is a collaboration between Public Health Cornwall and Together for Families, with support from Health Visiting, Early Years Inclusion and SEND, and the NHS Thriving Together Parent-Infant Service.
In a recent survey of more than 400 parents and carers in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, over half said they feel their phone use sometimes distracts them from noticing their children. Over a third shared concerns about how often they use their phone around them.
Research shows that excessive parental phone use can interfere with a child’s brain development, particularly in the critical early years from birth to age five.
Moments like mealtimes, play and bedtime stories are essential opportunities for connection, learning and emotional bonding.
When phones get in the way, children may miss out on the stimulation they need to thrive.
“Phones Away – Talk and Play”, is a non-judgemental campaign, which simply encourages parents to be present and engaged, promoting activities such as talking, playing, and reading together. The campaign’s core message is simple but powerful:
“Help your child to thrive from 0–5 with simple moments together.”
Cllr Hilary Frank, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Schools, said:
“This isn’t about judgement. We know that being a parent today means juggling a lot - work, home life, and the constant buzz of notifications. Mobile phones are part of everyday life, helping us to connect to others and get things done, but parents and children have told us that sometimes, phone use can get in the way of the moments that matter most.
“This campaign is about recognising the pressures families face and offering simple ways to connect with your child, through play, conversation, and shared time together.”
Cllr Thalia Marrington, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Public Health, said:
“Whether you're looking for ideas, reassurance, or just a reminder to pause and be present, the Cornwall Council website has lots of resources that can help.
“What might seem simple, or silly can have the power to be life-changing! Every smile, cuddle, chat and game makes a huge difference. Anytime, anywhere, whether at home or out and about, it all adds up.”
Learn more about the campaign and find lots of easy ideas to help you make the most of those everyday moments with your childStory posted October 23, 2025