Tia Stokes Addresses Her ‘Controversial’ Decision to Not Allow Her Kids Phones, Despite Them Having Social Media (Exclusive)

Tia Stokes, a prominent TikTok star and cancer survivor, initially rose to fame due to her uplifting posts that documented her chemotherapy treatments for acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Today, at the age of 40, she continues to inspire her followers with a message of positivity while navigating life as a mother of five children. Stokes maintains a significant presence on social media, boasting over 1 million followers on Instagram and 2.6 million on TikTok, where she shares insights about her parenting journey and everyday life.

Stokes became widely known for her unique approach to coping with the challenges of cancer. During her treatment, she danced daily, using this ritual not only to improve her own spirits but to encourage those around her. This blend of vulnerability and joy resonated with many, allowing her to cultivate a loyal following that celebrates her resilience and optimism. Now five years into remission, she is actively using her platform to discuss broader lifestyle topics alongside her health journey.

A distinctive aspect of Stokes’ parenting approach is her strict rule regarding mobile phones. She does not permit any of her five children, whose ages range from six to seventeen, to have their own devices. In an interview with PEOPLE, she explained that she sees this decision as a means to safeguard her children’s childhood experiences, acknowledging the controversy it may provoke among some parents, especially as her children already have their own social media accounts managed by her.

Stokes elaborates that while her children are not entirely disconnected from social media, the intention behind her decision is to preserve their “radical freedom” during their formative years. She understands the pressures adults face as they juggle constant connectivity, suggesting that children benefit from being less reachable. “If the kids really want to contact someone, they can use their parents’ phones,” she said, emphasising that the primary concern is the ability of the outside world to reach her children rather than the other way around.

Her children initially resisted the idea of not having their own phones, pointing out that many of their friends did. However, Stokes reports that over time, her kids have grown accustomed to this rule and often express little desire for phones. “Now they don’t even ask for it. They don’t even care,” she said, reflecting on the change in their attitude.

Only her eldest son, Major, has limited access to a phone, allowed just 15 minutes per day to check his social media page. However, Stokes observed a shift in Major’s self-perception, as he began to compare himself unfavourably to peers based on their online highlight reels. Concerned about the impact on his mental health and confidence, she ultimately decided to restrict his use, prioritising a healthy self-image and focus on sports and academics.

Stokes consistently addresses concerns that her children might lag socially without phones. She affirms that the absence of devices has not hindered their social skills or popularity. “My kids are thriving where they are,” she stated, underscoring that they are well-liked and successful in both athletics and academics.

Feedback from teachers indicates that Stokes’ children engage positively in class discussions, often making meaningful contributions without the distraction of devices. A particularly heartwarming moment for Stokes occurs when her children are out with friends, observing their peers engrossed in their phones while they revel in interaction, asking their companions for conversation instead.

In this digital age, where screens often dominate interactions, Tia Stokes offers a refreshing perspective on parenting amid modern challenges. Her commitment to preserving the essence of childhood through deliberate choices raises important questions about the role of technology in young lives and the meaningful connections that can flourish when parents prioritise real-life interactions over virtual presences. By sharing her journey, Stokes continues to inspire others to find balance in their family lives, promoting hope, resilience, and the beauty of living fully in the moment.