Team Unscreen is a community commitment to give our kids space to grow, explore and connect without the constant pull of smartphones and social media.
We are working towards a cultural shift.
Our immediate goal is for 50% of 3rd-5th grade families in South Orange and Maplewood to sign the Wait Until 8th pledge, which aims to delay smartphones and social media until the start of 9th grade.
Our Story
We are a local group bringing the nationwide conversation about smartphones, social media and kids’ mental health to our community.
Through education, resources and support, we hope to reduce the peer pressure that leads to early tech adoption and reprioritize in-person friendships, creativity and play.
Matters Magazine Feature
Read about our mission and background in the Winter 2025 Edition of Matters Magazine
The evidence that smartphones damage children’s mental health has continued to grow in recent years.
Feelings of loneliness and sadness began rising more than a decade ago, around the same time that smartphones and then social media became ubiquitous.
-The New York Times
So let’s do something about it.
Take Action
Want to get involved?
Want tips and tricks to unplug at home?
We have so much more to tell you!
Resources
Want to learn more?
Check out these articles, books, podcasts and more for extra info.
Plus Smartphone alternatives for you to consider!