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 can make a real difference for children, families, and communities. Conversations like these are how cultural change begins — one school at a time[.style-intro]

This guide brings together tips from parents who’ve already hosted successful Parent Talks, to help you feel relaxed, well-prepared, and confident about leading a positive, inclusive discussion in your own school.

Common feelings before starting out

It’s very normal to have a few questions before giving your first talk. You might wonder how it will go, or what kind of response you’ll get. Every parent who’s taken the lead in their school has felt that — and every one of them has later felt the satisfaction of seeing their school community come together.

Here are a few common thoughts, and some friendly reassurance:

“I don’t know enough.”

You don’t need to be an expert. Your role isn’t to have all the answers – it’s simply to open a conversation. Sharing why you personally feel it’s important to delay smartphones is more than enough. If someone asks a question you don’t know, you can simply say, “I’m not sure, but I can find out.” That honesty builds trust.

“I don’t want to offend anyone.”

This isn’t about judging or dividing parents – it’s about supporting each other. Many parents who’ve already given their children smartphones wish they’d waited, or are working out how to manage access to apps and social media. Approaching the discussion with empathy and curiosity helps everyone feel included.

“I don’t want to get into a debate.”

You’re not trying to persuade everyone. You’re simply helping parents who feel the same way find each other. Some of the most valuable conversations are with people who don’t entirely agree but are open to sharing their experiences.

“What if no one engages?”

It’s unlikely you’re the only one thinking this way. Most parents are quietly worrying about the same things and just waiting for someone to start the conversation. Even if your first event is small, it plants a seed that can grow over time.

Creating a positive conversation

Your goal isn’t to convince – it’s to connect. Most parents already sense that something about smartphone culture isn’t working; they’re just unsure what to do next. The Parent Talk is your chance to explore that together.

Remember – you’ve got good news to share.

Go in with a smile. This is an empowering story about communities coming together to create a better future for their children. You’re not warning people of a problem – you’re inviting them to be part of a hopeful solution that’s already spreading across the country.

We’re not here to sell.

This isn’t about persuasion or pressure. It’s an invitation — for parents who share similar concerns to connect and support one another. You’re not promoting an agenda; you’re creating space for families to make confident, informed choices together.

No judgement.

Parenting in the digital age is complicated, and everyone is doing their best. Families who’ve already given their children smartphones are still part of this conversation. The more open and welcoming the space, the more likely it is that culture will shift together.

Parents aren’t the problem – the system is

The real challenge isn’t individual families – it’s the system designed by tech companies that makes healthy choices harder.

Key messages to highlight

• We don’t have to accept this as normal. Tech companies didn’t ask parents before putting addictive devices into every pocket. We can choose differently.
• This isn’t about saying no – it’s about saying yes. Yes to play, to presence, to face-to-face friendships.
• It’s not too late. Smartphones are barely two decades old. We can absolutely change course together.
• This is already happening. Over 150,000 Parent Pacts have been signed — the movement is spreading fast.
• Together we’re powerful. When parents delay together, the pressure lifts for everyone.

In summary

This isn’t about taking something away – it’s about giving our children something better: more time to play, to connect, to be present.

And it’s working. Parents everywhere are coming together to support one another and create a healthier, happier childhood – one conversation at a time.

You’ve got this.

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