They can keep us connected better than ever before, taking physical distance and shrinking it down to mere pixels and they provide endless hours of entertainment.

Whether that's watching videos on YouTube, scrolling through your Facebook feed, or listening to podcasts or music - it seems like every single day we become more and more attached to our devices.

For most people, finding themselves in a restricted internet area brings initial panic, but then waves of relief - the more time you spend away from your phone becomes, in a way, sort of freeing.

The shackles of posting updates on your social media highlight reel become loosened, even if it's just for a little while.

And if smartphones have that kind of profound effect on adults, shouldn't we be thinking more about what impacts they have on our children?

This week, prominent child psychologist Michael Carr-Gregg called for Tasmania to follow NSW's lead to restrict the use of smartphones for primary school students in government schools.

The restriction calls for the development of a new model, where pupils can bring their personal devices to school, but they are stowed away in a safe location for the duration of class time.

Smartphones have been linked to an increase in cyberbullying and it is well documented that they can cause disruption and distraction for young people.

A survey conducted by The Examiner, showed the majority of respondents were in favour of Dr Carr-Gregg's restriction.

However, some readers pointed out that mobile phones and smartphones were necessary for navigating education and social life.

Tasmania does not have an over-arching smartphone policy, but it does advocate a "bring your own device" policy for schools.

One thing is for certain, more debate and discussion is needed around this issue to protect our most vulnerable, and future leaders of Tasmania - our children.

Have an opinion on smartphone use in schools? Have your say and write a letter to the editor here.