Mayo smartphone-free childhood group announces public information evening

A GROUP has been formed by parents in a west Mayo community with the aim of encouraging a balanced and age-appropriate approach to smartphones and other technology.

Achill Smartphone-Free Childhood, a new community-led initiative, will host a public information evening on Monday, February 23 at 7.30pm in Ted’s Bar, Cashel, inviting parents and the wider community to reflect on how smartphones and social media are shaping childhood today.

Open to parents of both primary and secondary school children — as well as anyone interested in supporting young people in a digital world — the evening aims to provide practical information, reassurance and space for conversation. Organisers emphasise that families at every stage are welcome, including those whose children already have phones.

Achill Smartphone-Free Childhood is a group of more than 20 parents from across the island working together to encourage a balanced and age-appropriate approach to technology. The initiative focuses on supporting wellbeing, sleep, friendships and positive childhood experiences, while helping to reduce pressure on individual families through a shared community response.

READ: Mayo County Council seek approval to extend lease of Achill caravan park

The event will feature four guest speakers offering national, community and frontline perspectives. Deputy Keira Keogh, Chair of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Children, will outline the growing national conversation around young people and smartphones.

Planet Youth coordinator Emmet Major will share insights from youth research, while Community Garda Shane Nallen will discuss online safety issues seen locally. Hilary O’Connor will speak about the impact of a community-led approach from her experience with a smartphone free childhood group in Westport.

Attendance is free, with time for questions and discussion. For more information, see Achill Smartphone Free Childhood on Facebook.