Simon Cowell's wife, Lauren, has admitted that her parenting style may make her the 'least popular mum' among her son Eric's friends after revealing strict rules for playdates and sleepovers. The 12-year-old's mother, who shares Eric with the 66-year-old music mogul, is notoriously private about family life despite her husband's fame.
Smartphone Ban at Home
Taking to Instagram, Lauren announced that smartphones are banned from the house when children are together. 'This has the potential to make me the least popular mum in my son's friendship group,' she wrote. She explained that during playdates or sleepovers, 'we ask that smartphones stay away.' The rules extend to overnight stays, with 'no devices in the bedroom overnight.'
Lauren insisted she is not 'anti-tech' but has seen the benefits of giving children space to 'simply be children.' She noted, 'More laughter, more conversation, better sleep and more genuine connection.' The mum-of-two emphasized that the policy is not a punishment but a way to create a 'better balance,' adding that 'a few hours without notifications can make all the difference.'
Support from Followers
Lauren's followers largely supported her approach. One replied, 'Great insights and advice @laurenmichellecowell. This would definitely impact our kids in such a positive way and their emotional wellbeing.' She also clarified that children can use phones to contact parents if needed, stressing that 'no one is forced to do anything.'
Simon Cowell's Own Tech Views
In 2024, Simon Cowell revealed his disdain for smartphones, saying he finds them 'boring' and compares them to 'having a toaster with you all the time.' Despite owning a mobile phone, the Britain's Got Talent judge admitted he rarely uses it and often leaves it in the car. 'Nine times out of ten, I'll use somebody else's because I don't even know how to work it anymore,' he told YouTuber Evan Carmichael.
