Sardinian restaurants ban families from using phones at the table

A group of restaurants in Sardinia has launched a pilot scheme called A tavola senza schermi (At the table without screens) to ban families from using smartphones and other devices at the dining table. Spearheaded by the island’s children’s ombudsman, Anna Cau, the initiative aims to curb excessive screen time among minors and encourage face-to-face conversation during meals.

During the one-month trial, which begins next week, parents and children dining at any of the 15 participating restaurants will be required to put their devices away. Cau emphasized that the initiative relies on supportive environmental changes rather than harsh prohibitions or placing full responsibility solely on parents.

After handing in their devices, families receive a "reunion kit" designed by the Italian federation of pediatricians. This kit contains games, drawings, and an alternative activity structured with time limits to help under-18s start conversations, share stories about their day, and foster real-world interaction.

The kit also includes a brochure outlining the risks of digital overexposure and offering practical tips on how families can manage social media use at home. Cau collaborated closely with the Sardinian wing of Fipe-Confcommercio, an association representing the catering, tourism, and entertainment sectors, to develop the program.

Emanuele Frongia, president of the regional federation, noted that the 15 establishments readily agreed to join, with plans to expand the scheme voluntarily. Restaurateurs observed that lively chatter has increasingly been replaced by silent screen time, with devices often handed to children merely to keep them quiet.

Edited using generative AI tools. 
Source:https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/oct/27/sardinian-restaurants-bans-families-from-using-phones

Comprehension

What is the name of the initiative being launched in Sardinia?
How long is the initial pilot scheme scheduled to run, and how many restaurants are participating?
Who spearheaded this campaign against table-side screen use?
What do families receive from the restaurant staff after handing in their devices?
According to Emanuele Frongia, why do parents sometimes hand devices to their children at restaurants?

Discussion

Do you think banning phones in restaurants is a good idea, or should it be a personal choice? Why?
How often do you or people you know use smartphones during meals? Does it affect conversation?
What are some advantages and disadvantages of giving children a smartphone or tablet to keep them quiet?
In what ways has technology changed how families spend time together compared to the past?
Have you ever tried to have a "tech-free" dinner or evening? What was the experience like?
Do restaurants in your home country or city have similar rules or policies regarding mobile phones?
What alternative activities (other than phones) can parents use to keep children entertained while waiting for food?
How can schools and communities help children balance screen time with real-world interactions?

Vocabulary

Ombudsman: An official appointed to investigate individuals' complaints against maladministration or to advocate for specific groups (such as children).
Curb: To restrain, control, or keep something within limits.
Prohibition: The action of forbidding something, especially by law or authoritative rule.
Pediatrician: A medical doctor who specializes in the care, development, and diseases of babies and children.
Overexposure: Excessive exposure to something (such as digital screens or media) that may be harmful.
Fostering: Encouraging the development or growth of something, such as ideas or feelings.
Establishment: A business, hotel, or restaurant.
Pilot: A small-scale preliminary trial conducted to test a program or service before launching it more widely.