MDS Tech ran across a site with a lot of useful information about students and technology – specifically, the use of smartphones.

“Teens spend an average of seven hours and 22 minutes on their phones a day, and tweens — ages 8 to 12 — are at four hours and 44 minutes daily, according to a report by Common Sense Media.”
— taken from https://www.waituntil8th.org/blog/2021/9/19/how-to-help-your-kid-use-their-iphone-less

“Smartphones are distracting and potentially dangerous for children yet are widespread in elementary and middle school because of unrealistic social pressure and expectations to have one.”

“Parents feel powerless in this uphill battle and need community support to help delay the ever-evolving presence of the smartphone in the classroom, social arena and family dinner table. Let’s band together to wait until at least eighth grade before children are allowed to have a smartphone. “

https://www.waituntil8th.org/why-wait – top Silicon Valley execs are delaying the smartphone for THEIR children until at least age 14. Click the link to learn more.

https://www.waituntil8th.org/faqs – the FAQ that explains what the pledge is, how to rally people from the school into participating, and even has downloadable signup sheets and posters.

https://www.waituntil8th.org/resources – emails, posters, packets, signs, flyers, and even a video.

https://www.waituntil8th.org/digital-training – all sorts of best practices, family guides, and even a list of resources and services you can use in your family.

https://www.waituntil8th.org/devices – “When you are considering what communication device is best for your child, it is important first to ask what is the purpose of the device? In other words, why does my child need a phone? If calling and texting is all that is needed, we encourage parents to consider a basic phone before a smartphone.”