The Solution
Together we are powerful
Governments must do far more to protect children from addictive algorithms and harmful content — but change at that level takes time.
As parents, we don’t have time to wait. Not for more studies. Not for endless debates. Not for years of slow-moving regulation.
Our children’s futures are being shaped right now. And that means we must act now — together.
By uniting as families, schools, and communities, we are creating the change our kids need today, not someday.
HIT Pause — It Starts by Delaying, Together
Smartphones are the gateway to social media, and to the vast, unfiltered “Wild West” of the internet.
But here’s the truth: when kids don’t have 24/7 access in their pockets, everything changes. Childhood slows down. Focus and creativity deepen. Real-world friendships and emotional resilience have space to grow.
That’s why Village to Raise is encouraging families everywhere to HIT PAUSE, to hold off on smartphones and social media until kids are truly ready.
The longer we wait to hand over a smartphone, the more time our children have to learn, develop, and grow free from addictive algorithms and the anxiety machine of social media.
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And that’s why we say it loud and clear: Delay. Delay. Delay.
Together, It Gets Easier
Saying “no” alone can feel impossible. But when we pause together as families, schools, and communities, it becomes easier for everyone.
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That’s the power of our Parent Pact: a collective promise to wait until at least age 14 for smartphones and 16 for social media.
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It’s built around school communities, so the more families who sign on, the stronger it becomes. Each signature makes it easier for the next parent to say not yet, and helps protect childhood, together.
We’re not anti-tech,
we’re pro childhood
Technology isn’t the enemy, how and when we introduce it is what matters. We want kids to grow up confident and capable with tech, not controlled by it.
That’s why we believe in building digital skills gradually and intentionally, giving children more time to explore, learn, and just be kids before they’re constantly connected.
“Wait Until 9th” is about balance, not banning, PAUSING, helping families create a healthier relationship with technology on their own terms.
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Every family’s path will look a little different. But here’s one approach that’s working for many.
0 - 11 Years old
No phone
We’re not saying no internet or no screens. But for most primary-aged children, a personal phone simply isn’t necessary. Shared family devices, and even traditional landlines are often more than enough to stay connected without putting a smartphone in their hands too soon.
11 - 14 Years old
First phone
THE START PHONE,
A simple first step into communication, without the risks of full internet access. A basic flip phone or a Huawei kids’ smartwatch are excellent options, allowing calls and messages but no social media, apps, or web browsers.
At this stage, kids can stay connected safely while continuing to use shared family devices like laptops or tablets for supervised online activities.
14 - 16 Years old
Introduce a smartphone with built-in parental controls and well-defined limits on apps and daily screen time
16+ Years old
Smartphone
Older teens are more ready to manage the challenges that come with always being online and connected to social media.
Bring Village to Raise to Your School
Every big change starts with one small step.
You don’t need to be an expert, just a parent who cares. Use our free toolkit to start the conversation at your school, share the pledge, and bring other families on board. Together, we can give kids more time to grow up before they grow online.