Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Princess of Wales Warns of Smartphone-Driven 'Disconnection' in New Early-Years Essay

A joint piece with Harvard's Robert Waldinger anchors the rollout of early‑years resources tied to her Home‑Start Oxford visit.

Overview

  • Kate published “The Power of Human Connection in a Distracted World” through her Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, co‑authoring it with Professor Robert Waldinger.
  • The essay cites the Harvard Study of Adult Development to argue that relationship quality is the strongest predictor of long‑term health and happiness.
  • She warns that constant digital distraction is undermining babies’ and young children’s social and emotional development, urging families to protect mealtimes and practice attentive, face‑to‑face connection.
  • Her visit to Home‑Start Oxford coincides with a national rollout of the Centre’s animated explainer films and volunteer training for frontline family support.
  • Prince William recently said their three children do not have phones, reinforcing the couple’s parenting example as Kate continues a measured public return focused on early childhood.