Supporting the Parent Pact – Smartphone Free Childhood
Dear Parents/Carers,
We would like to make you aware of an important initiative called ‘The Parent Pact’, which aims to support and promote the reduction of smartphone use among children and young people. This campaign, led by Smartphone Free Childhood and supported by the Minister of Education, encourages parents to work together to delay smartphone use until a later age.
Recently, a local parent information event was held in Ballinderry Parish, highlighting the growing Smartphone Free Childhood movement. Jointly organised by Derrychrin PS and Ballylifford PS, the session emphasised the importance of protecting childhood, promoting healthy development, and supporting families to delay smartphone use. Expert speakers shared insights on child development, online safety, and current research, reinforcing the value of play, social interaction, and balanced technology use.
By joining this voluntary commitment, parents agree not to provide their children with smartphones until they are older, helping to:
- Reduce early exposure to social media and online risks
- Support children’s mental health and wellbeing
- Foster stronger offline social and family connections
Further information and the opportunity to sign up can be found at:
https://www.smartphonefreechildhood.org/sign-the-parent-pact
We appreciate your continued support and commitment to safeguarding, pupil wellbeing and creating a safe and healthy environment for our children.
Kind regards,
Mr. Ciaran McElroy
Principal
