Finnish schools see social and academic benefits after widespread phone bans

Nearly half of Finland’s lower secondary schools have completely banned mobile phones during breaks, according to a new survey by the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), with many reporting increased social interaction and physical activity among students.

The findings reveal stark differences in policies between primary and lower secondary schools. While almost all primary schools enforce a total ban, only 44 percent of lower secondary schools have done the same. Regional variations are also significant: in Central Ostrobothnia, nearly 80 percent of lower secondary schools prohibit phones entirely, whereas in South Karelia, only 15 percent do.

At Linnainmaa School in Tampere, which introduced restrictions last May, students say the change has been noticeable. Ninth-graders Oona Tapaila and Sella Kinnunen report more socializing, physical activity, and even studying during breaks now that phones are off-limits indoors.

“Community spirit has grown a lot because people aren’t just on their phones anymore,” Tapaila said. “We’re also doing more homework and revising for exams since we can’t just check our phones.”

Principal Ilona Pasma confirmed the shift, noting that students now engage in more conversation and games like table tennis and foosball. The ban has also streamlined lesson transitions, as students no longer need time to put away phones.

Nationwide, practices vary widely. In the Helsinki and Uusimaa region, 59 percent of lower secondary students are allowed some phone use outside class, while in Kainuu, a third of schools impose no restrictions at all during breaks. The THL survey, covering 95 percent of Finnish comprehensive schools, highlights how local policies shape students’ daily routines—with many schools now reporting tangible benefits from reducing screen time.