Community pact to delay smartphones until the recommended age of 14

A campaign from Smartphone Free Childhood Mt. View/Los Altos (and other South Bay Cities)

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Together, we're changing what's normal

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Recent supporters:
Community member signed 7 months ago

Why This Matters

We believe childhood should be filled with play, presence, and real connection—not filtered through a screen. By delaying smartphones, we give our children the time and space they need to grow strong minds, healthy habits, and lifelong resilience. Let’s support each other in building a new norm—one where kids are free to be kids.

 
We, the undersigned families of [INSERT SCHOOL / DISTRICT / COMMUNITY NAME], agree to delay giving our children internet-enabled smartphones until at least age 14.
We make this commitment not out of fear, but out of purpose because the research is clear:
  • Smartphones drive excessive screen time, exposing kids to content and interactions they’re not ready for.
  • Apps are designed to addicting, leveraging persuasive design that targets still-developing brains.
  • Screen overuse harms health by disrupting sleep, mood, focus, and even physical development.
  • Mental health suffers, with higher rates of anxiety, depression, and loneliness linked to smartphone use.
  • Social and academic skills decline, as screens interfere with attention, empathy, communication, and learning.
Smartphones may be the norm, but normal isn’t always healthy. We don’t accept a childhood shaped by constant scrolling, comparison, or distraction. Our kids deserve more.
Instead, we choose:
  • Simple communication tools without internet or social media beginning in middle school, if necessary. See smartphone alternatives at TurningLifeOn.org
  • Rich, real-world experiences filled with play, movement, connection, and creativity
  • A supportive community where saying “not yet” to smartphones is a shared value—not a solo decision
This is not about perfection—it’s about protection. We delay smartphones to preserve what matters most: our kids’ health, development, and joy.

How this is different than Wait Until 8th.
With Wait Until 8th, it is impossible to know who is waiting because they will not not share the contact information of parents who sign up. Our goal is not just to delay but to connect. By signing our local pledge, we can connect you with like-minded parents and provide you with information about local events to help you stay informed and connected. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Together, we are Turning Life On. Join us.

Recent Supporters

  • Community member

    Signed in Los Altos, CA

    7 months ago
1 supporters have signed this campaign

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