The CSD chapter of Wait Until 8th supports delaying smartphone and social media use until eighth grade or later. Smartphone use in children is linked to a decline in mental health, fewer strong friendships, poor sleep, and an increased risk of bullying. 

Giving young children the opportunity for device-free, unstructured play is crucial to our mission. We, the parents of Whitemarsh Elementary School, support implementing a school-wide device-free indoor recess policy. We understand that this approach may present certain practical challenges and we are also committed to working with teachers and staff to overcome these for the sake of our children.

Reducing the amount of time spent on devices during the elementary years will have a lasting positive effect on our children’s mental and physical health as they move into adolescence. Thank you to the WES community for your support!