Lauren Silverman says she keeps smartphones out of the bedroom when her son Eric Cowell has friends over for sleepovers.
Silverman, who shares 12-year-old Eric with Simon Cowell, explained the rule in a social media post about children, phones and overnight visits. Page Six reported that Silverman said the rule has “made a real difference” in their home.
Silverman said devices are kept out of the bedroom when Eric’s friends stay over, but phones remain accessible if needed for emergencies.
The Sun reported that Silverman joked the rule could make her the “least popular mum” in Eric’s friendship group.
Silverman Said Phones Stay Out of the Bedroom
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Silverman wrote that children are more likely to talk, laugh, sleep and connect when phones are not part of the room, according to Page Six.
The Sun reported that Silverman also keeps phones away during playdates, not only overnight visits.
She said the rule is not about removing access completely. Phones are still available if a child needs to contact a parent or handle an emergency.
The Rule Fits Her Wider Social Media Concerns
Silverman has also spoken publicly about Eric’s online limits. People reported that she and Cowell have “very clear” rules around social media and do not allow Eric to use it for now.
Silverman said Eric has what she described as a “brick phone.” She explained that it is technically an Apple phone, but it is heavily restricted and only allows texting and WhatsApp.
She discussed the family’s rules while appearing on This Morning to support the Raise the Age campaign, which calls for stronger protections around children’s access to social media in the U.K.
Cowell Has Also Stepped Away From Phones
Silverman also said Cowell has not used a cellphone for about eight years. People reported that she called him the “trendsetter” in the family when it comes to stepping away from constant phone use.
She said removing the notifications, distractions and constant pull of a phone had been positive for Cowell.
Cowell, 66, is best known for American Idol, The X Factor, Britain’s Got Talent and America’s Got Talent. Eric was born in February 2014 and is Cowell’s only child with Silverman.