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Wait Until 8th: Protecting Childhood, Together
The SJS Parent Wellness Committee is proud to support the Wait Until 8th movement at St. James Elementary. This national campaign empowers parents to delay giving their children smartphones until at least 8th grade - a simple, unified step that protects kids’ mental and emotional well-being. When many families take the pledge together, it significantly eases the peer pressure - helping our kids feel less singled out and less likely to ask for a phone simply because “everyone else has one.”
Why it matters:
Today’s kids are growing up in a world of constant connectivity. But smartphones introduce powerful distractions, risks, and adult content long before most children are ready. Research shows:
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Social media increases rates of anxiety, depression, and poor body image - especially in girls.
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Boys are often exposed to inappropriate and explicit material far too early.
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Smartphones interfere with sleep, focus, and the ability to form real-life friendships and confidence.
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Parental controls and filters often fall short.
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Smartphones disconnect kids from the real-life moments and connections that matter most.
A better way:
We still need to stay connected to our growing kids, and thankfully, we can! Devices like the Gabb Phone , Light Phone , and Pinwheel allow basic calling and texting, without internet, apps, or social media. These are ideal solutions for families who want safety and simplicity.
How to join:
Visit waituntil8th.org/take-the-pledge and select “St. James Elementary” in Red Bank, NJ when signing.
THE BALANCE PROJECT
The Balance Project is a local nonprofit created by parents who want to help families raise tech-healthy kids. Their mission is to provide support, resources, and local community for parents navigating the challenges of kids and screens. On their website you’ll find toolkits, articles, podcasts, and simple, realistic ideas for creating healthier tech habits at home. With more than 60 chapters across the country (many of those communities all right near us!), The Balance Project offers parents a chance to connect with others who are passionate about protecting childhood, building balance, and encouraging kids to thrive beyond their screens. Learn more or get involved at thebalanceproject.life .
More Resources for Parents to Raise Tech-Healthy Kids:
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Wait Until 8th Pledge – www.waituntil8th.org
Learn more about the movement, explore FAQs, and sign the pledge for your child’s grade. -
Why Wait? – Read the article on why waiting is so important
A quick, compelling overview of the research behind delaying smartphones. -
Dopamind – www.dopamindkids.org
A science-backed platform helping families understand the effects of screen use on developing brains. -
The Balance Project – www.thebalanceproject.life
A local initiative promoting digital wellness, mindful parenting, and healthy screen habits. Join their newsletter to receive details of upcoming events/meetings! -
ScreenStrong – www.screenstrong.org
Offers practical tools, science-based education, and family success stories to guide healthier tech choices. -
Podcast: ScreenStrong Families
Weekly conversations about parenting in a digital world, filled with support and expert guidance. -
Book: T he Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
A deep dive into how overexposure to smartphones and social media is reshaping childhood and teen mental health. -
Game System: The Nex Playground is a smart, motion-based gaming system that gets kids off the couch and moving! With games that encourage physical activity, coordination, and family interaction, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional gaming consoles.
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Audio Player: Yoto Player is designed just for kids, offering stories, music, educational content, podcasts, and more. It’s a wonderful way to create a calm, tech-positive environment in your child’s room without introducing another screen.
Together, we can reclaim childhood - for our kids, and for each other.
