Concerns are growing about the effects of smartphones on both adults and children, so we're looking at ways to reduce our dependence on these ubiquitous devices. Presenter Myra Anubi attempts to ditch her smartphone for a week, while she finds out about a fast-growing campaign in which local parents get together to agree to delay buying them for their children. But Myra and her own daughter don't quite see eye-to-eye on the topic. Plus Anna Holligan visits an innovative project called The Offline Club in Amsterdam, where people hand in their phones in exchange for a dose of good old real-life interaction. People Fixing The World from the BBC is about brilliant solutions to the world's problems. We'd love you to let us know what you think and to hear about your own solutions. You can contact us on WhatsApp by messaging +44 8000 321721 or email peoplefixingtheworld@bbc.co.uk. And please leave us a review on your chosen podcast provider. Presenter: Myra Anubi Producer: William Kremer Netherlands reporter: Anna Holligan Editor: Jon Bithrey Sound mix: Hal Haines
People Fixing.
People Fixing the World.
This is People Fixing the World from the BBC World Service, a program that dials down on all the negativity around us and focuses on solution stories from across the world.
I'm Mayra Anubi, and you might want to pay close attention today because I'll be talking about something that you might be using right now.
Your smartphone.
But do we use our phones too much?
Well, today.
Today we'll hear about one idea that's encouraging people to use them less and find out about a movement that's getting parents to delay buying these devices for their children.
My daughter Zani had her 9th birthday recently, and shortly before the big day, she reminded me that I had apparently promised to buy her a certain special gift.
You said you'd get me an iPhone.
15.
Who said get you an I?
Daddy?
Did you say you're getting an iPhone?
No.
You said you me.
Nelly.
Ever.
It's because she said she'll get me an iPhone 15.
And the reason I really want to own is because it's like my own mini world.