Kiley DeMarco, a mother of two, attended Safety Night at her children’s elementary school and came across a booth where parents were pledging not to give their kids smartphones until the end of eighth grade. This initiative aims to combat the negative effects of smartphones and social media on teenagers, such as increased anxiety and depression.
DeMarco, like many parents, has concerns about the impact of smartphones on children’s mental health. By signing the pledge with other parents, she feels supported and relieved of the pressure to give in to her kids’ demands for phones. This collective action makes it easier for parents to stick to their decision and set a clear boundary for their children.
The idea of parents coming together to delay smartphone use until after middle school is gaining momentum in schools and communities nationwide. By acting as a group, parents hope to create a supportive environment for their children and reduce feelings of isolation for those without smartphones.
Research from Common Sense shows that around half of children in the US own cellphones by age 11, highlighting the prevalence of smartphone use among young people. The pledge to delay smartphone access until a certain age is a proactive measure to protect children’s well-being and mental health in today’s digital age.
As parents navigate the challenges of raising children in a technology-driven world, initiatives like the smartphone pledge offer a sense of community and solidarity. By making a collective commitment to delay smartphone use, parents are taking a proactive step towards promoting healthy living and well-being for their children.
