While many parents struggle to balance their children’s screen time, Hollywood stars Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling have taken a strong stance on keeping their daughters, Esmeralda (8) and Amada (7), completely removed from smartphones and the Internet. Mendes recently shared his views on his strict but conscious approach to parenting, which stems from concerns about the negative impact of online exposure on young minds.

Mendes, 49, who has been in a relationship with Gosling since 2011, explained that their two daughters are banned from using smartphones and accessing the internet. The actress believes that allowing children to access the Internet can be as risky as giving them the keys to a car or letting them drink alcohol before they are ready. Mendes compared his approach to other age-restricted activities, suggesting that navigating the online world requires a level of maturity that young children don’t yet possess. The decision to avoid social media and the internet stems entirely from a desire to protect their daughters’ mental health. Mendes pointed out that too much exposure to social media can lead to unhealthy comparisons and pressure on children to follow unrealistic depictions of other people’s lives. She also pointed out that the negative comments and hatred often found on social media platforms can be harmful, not only to children, but to anyone.

Mendes used humor to discuss the situation on Instagram, sharing a video in which she joked about her daughters asking her when they will be allowed to go online. Although Mendes understands that controlling access to the Internet may become more difficult as Esmeralda and Amada age, she remains committed to this position for now. In a response to a follower who commented on the challenges of keeping children off the internet, Mendes responded that she considered the internet to be dangerous for young children, just as driving or voting would be.

The star also acknowledged that the internet and social media have become an essential part of modern life, but she and Gosling are doing everything they can to delay their daughters’ reveal. Mendes emphasized that just because kids live in an internet-centric age doesn’t mean they should rush to use it. Her philosophy reflects a desire to delay her daughters’ engagement with online life until they are mature enough to handle its complexities responsibly.

Mendes and Gosling’s approach to parenting highlights the importance of protecting children from the overwhelming influences of modern technology. At a time when many parents feel pressured to give in to screen time, Mendes is positioning himself as an advocate for thoughtful parenting choices that prioritize mental well-being and childhood innocence. As her daughters grow, Mendes recognizes the challenges ahead, but remains firm in her belief that keeping them safe from the internet for as long as possible will help them develop in healthier, more grounded ways.

ALSO READ: Does Ryan Gosling want to make a Barbie sequel with Margot Robbie? Here’s what sources have to say