Tips for presenting to other parents about Smartphone Free Childhood

[.style-intro]First of all, thank you. You’re helping to start a conversation that could make a real difference for children, families, and communities. It’s brave to step up and share your perspective on this issue with other parents, because these discussions can feel tricky and awkward. But it’s totally worth it; conversations are the key to creating the cultural change that needs to happen, so here are a few tips to help you feel prepared, confident, and ready to engage parents in a positive, constructive way.[.style-intro]

Creating a positive conversation

We think the argument in our slide deck is pretty compelling; but this isn’t about winning an argument, it’s about listening, sharing experiences, and opening up a conversation.

Assume the best – Every parent wants to do what’s right for their child. The way we handle smartphones might differ, but we’re all doing our best in a tough situation. We’re here because we’re in this together. We’re with you, not against you.

Talk, don’t tell – Ask open-ended questions and really listen to how people feel. Parents are more likely to engage if they feel heard.

Don’t blame or judge parents – Everyone wants the best for their kid, the problem is tech companies and governments that have put families in an impossible position. Parents shouldn’t have to choose between exposing their kids to harm or making them feel left out.

Share the growing evidence, but gently – Facts matter (and we’ve got loads of data in our slide decks) but overwhelming people with stats isn’t always the most effective approach. A simple, honest message is often more powerful: Ten years ago, we didn’t know the impact of smartphones on kids. Now, we do.

Some key messages to get across

We don’t have to accept this as ‘just the way it is’
Tech companies didn’t ask parents before putting addictive, profit-driven devices in our kids’ pockets. We didn’t ask for this, so we’re allowed to push back.

This isn’t about saying no, it’s about saying yes
Yes to childhood. Yes to real play. Yes to kids being present in the moment and learning to socialise face-to-face instead of glued to a screen.

It’s not too late
Some people say ‘the genie’s out of the bottle, we can’t put it back’. We say this issue is too important to give up on. And smartphones have only been with us 15 years, we can absolutely change this if we work together.

This is already happening
Over 100,000 Parent Pacts have been signed in 6 months, the movement is spreading across the UK and all over the world – if we work together we really can change this.

Together we’re powerful
No parent should have to navigate this alone. When groups of parents delay smartphones together, it removes the pressure and makes it normal.

Tips for conversations with other parents

Start with shared experiences – “I’ve been struggling with this decision too…” or “I really don’t want my child to feel left out, but I also worry about what’s on these phones…”

Acknowledge concerns – “I totally get why parents feel pressure to give in. No one wants their child to be excluded.”

Invite the conversation – “Have you been thinking about this too? How do you feel about it?”

Keeping the momentum going

If parents seem interested, keep the discussion going. Invite them to join the school’s SFC WhatsApp group, encourage them to sign the Parent Pact and see if anyone’s interested in working with you to push for change in your school and beyond.

In summary

This isn’t about taking something away—it’s about giving our kids something better. A childhood free from 24/7 online pressures. More time to play, explore, and just be kids.

And the best part? It’s completely possible. Parents everywhere are making this change, and together, we can too.

You’ve got this.

📩 Need advice or support? Contact us at community@smartphonefreechildhood.com