Quickstart guide: how to build SFC momentum in your primary school community

[.style-intro]Want to push for change amongst parents in your primary school community but not sure how to approach it? This guide gives you a high-level overview of the steps that have worked for other parents across the country. It’s a simple, tried-and-tested way to build momentum around the Parent Pact – from first conversations to signing together.[.style-intro]

You don’t have to follow every step, or do it all perfectly. Some groups tweak the approach to fit their school – others skip a step entirely. That’s totally fine. The goal is simply to get families talking, build a sense of shared purpose, and move towards a strong group of parents taking action together.

Step 1: Find your early allies

Start small. You don’t need a full campaign team – just one or two parents who feel the same way you do. Share the idea of a Smartphone Free Childhood Parent Pact and see who’s curious.

• Keep your ask light. You're not asking for time or big commitments – just people who will chat in the WhatsApp group and help support the idea.
• Don't worry if some say no. It can actually be helpful to understand the pushback so you can respond thoughtfully later.
• Even one or two allies can make a huge difference to your confidence and momentum.
  
  

Step 2: Start the conversation with other parents

Once you’ve found your first few allies, gently start the conversation more widely.

• Post something friendly and low-pressure in your class WhatsApp group (we have examples here).
• Invite curiosity, not commitment. Keep it warm, personal, and positive.
• If your school has parent reps or a PTA, ask them to help spread the word.
• Set up a separate WhatsApp group for those interested. This keeps it from getting lost in class chat and creates a sense of community.
• Share useful links or personal reasons for wanting to wait on smartphones. Parents respond to honesty and real stories.

Relevant resources:

[.style-link] How to introduce the topic in a school Whatsapp group [.style-link]

[.style-link] How to start an SFC WhatsApp group [.style-link]

[.style-link] How to talk to other parents about smartphones without sounding judgemental[.style-link]

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Step 3: Loop in the school

You don’t need the school to lead this – but their support can really help.

• Start informally with a teacher or head. Share that some parents are exploring a Parent Pact.
• Make it clear: this is parent-led. You’re just asking for support to have the conversation.
• Ask for small things like permission to share a survey, or to mention the initiative in the newsletter.
• Use the SFC parent-to-primary presentation templates if you decide to meet with school leadership.

Relevant resources:‍

[.style-link] Template letter to send to primary school leaders [.style-link]

[.style-link] SFC parent-to-primary presentation [.style-link]

[.style-link] Tips for presenting to primary school leaders [.style-link]

Step 4: Run a short parent survey

A simple survey helps build momentum and show that others feel the same.

• Use our SFC survey template to ask quick questions about smartphone views.
• Keep it anonymous and easy (Google Forms works well).
• Share it via WhatsApp groups and the school newsletter if possible.
• Remind people to fill it in. A little nudge goes a long way.
• Once it’s closed, share the results. Seeing how many others are open to a pact can be a powerful motivator.

Relevant resources:

[.style-link]Guide to creating a survey about smartphones for other parents at your school [.style-link]

Step 5: Host a parents' meeting

This step can help spark real conversations and commitment.

• Present survey results or run through the SFC Parent Presentation.
• Keep it informal – the most powerful stories often come from parents themselves.
• You can do it in person or hybrid. In person often creates better energy, but hybrid helps more people attend.
• Even a small turnout is a win. It gets people talking and creates momentum.

Relevant resources:

[.style-link] SFC parent-to-parent presentation [.style-link]

[.style-link] Tips for presenting to parents about SFC[.style-link]  

Step 6: Launch the Pact!

Now it's time to go from talking to doing.

• Share a link to the Parent Pact (use the SFC Parent Pact page) and invite parents to sign.
• Make it feel collective: "Let's do this together so no one feels left out."
• Highlight how many have already signed to build social proof.
• Celebrate each sign-up in the group chat and encourage others to join.
• Tailor your messages for each year group. What matters in Reception is different from Year 5.
• Encourage some healthy competition with other local schools - could your school top the local leaderboard?

Relevant resources:

[.style-link] The Parent Pact [.style-link]

Step 7: Keep the momentum going

You did it – but this is just the beginning.

• Keep the WhatsApp group active by sharing stories, updates and support.
• Remind people the Parent Pact is still open for new joiners.
• Let the school know how many families have signed – and suggest they promote it to new parents.
• You could even help run a stall at parents' evening or the school fair.

Relevant resources:

[.style-link] SFC School Fair toolkit[.style-link]

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Ready to dive into the full School Organiser Playbook?

Our detailed, practical guide is packed with advice, templates, and real-life stories from organisers who've already build incredible momentum in their school communities across the UK. From starting the first SFC school WhatsApp group, right through to seeing your school rise up the Parent Pact rankings, this Playbook is designed to help you feel confident and supported as you go.

[.style-link]School Organiser Playbook[.style-link]

Thank you for stepping up!

Every parent who takes action helps move the dial. Whether you’re just starting a WhatsApp conversation or rallying a whole school, it all counts – and you’re making a real difference.

Remember: you’re not alone. The SFC WhatsApp community is full of parents just like you, sharing tips, stories and support.

Let’s keep building this, together.
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