WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW?

More secondary schools are now using Yondr pouches, or similar systems, to support phone-free learning.

These systems require students to place their mobile phones in a small locking pouch at the start of the school day. Students keep the pouch with them throughout the day, but cannot access their phones while the pouch remains locked. At the end of the school day, the pouch is unlocked using a designated unlocking base, allowing students to retrieve and use their phones before leaving school.

We want to make families aware of a potential safety concern that may affect a small number of children with hydrocephalus.

The bases used to unlock Yondr pouches contain strong magnets. These magnets could, in theory, interfere with certain programmable shunts.

After raising this with Yondr, the company is now working with us to share a medical safety notice on their website and with all schools using the system.

MANUFACTURER’S ADVISORY:

“This product uses magnets as part of its unlocking mechanism. Magnets may interfere with certain medical devices such as shunts or cardiac devices. The company does not provide medical advice regarding use with implanted medical devices. For users with medical shunts or other devices, consult with a medical professional or refer to the manufacturer’s guidance on safe distance.”

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY CHILD’S SCHOOL STARTS USING THESE POUCHES?

If your child has a programmable shunt and attends a school that uses, or is considering using, Yondr pouches, it’s a good idea to discuss this with both your neurosurgical team and the school. They can advise on how far the unlocking base should be kept from your child to ensure it remains safe.

If you have any further questions, you can contact Yondr’s Product Manager, Gabriella Nassief Borg, at gabriella@overyondr.com