Majority of Achill primary school families now signed up to Smartphone Free Childhood initiative

Almost 80 families across Achill, representing 137 children, have now signed up to the local Smartphone Free Childhood initiative, meaning a clear majority of families with children in primary school across the parish are now part of the voluntary agreement.

To date, 79 families have signed up, with over 97 percent of respondents supporting the initiative. This follows an earlier survey carried out before Christmas, in which 93 percent of parents who responded said they would prefer to delay smartphones and social media during primary school.

The initiative, which is parent-led, was established to support families who wish to delay smartphone ownership and social media access for young children, while recognising that many parents can feel under pressure when children believe ‘everyone else has one’.

Organisers stress that the agreement is voluntary, anonymous and non-binding, and is intended as a supportive tool rather than a set of rules.

“Every family will make the choices they feel are right for their own child, and that is fully respected,” the group said. “What this initiative offers is simply support for parents who would prefer to delay smartphones and social media during primary school, but often find that difficult when children feel they are the only ones without them.”

They say one of the strongest messages from parents has been that strength in numbers helps reduce pressure on both parents and children, as families feel more confident when they know others are making similar decisions.

The group says many parents are responding to growing evidence around the impact of early smartphone and social media use on sleep, attention, anxiety, confidence and online safety, while also recognising that technology has an important place in children’s lives and that learning to use it in the right way at different ages is both necessary and healthy.

The agreement remains open, and organisers say it is not too late for other families to take part.

Parents who would like more information, wish to receive the link, or have any questions can contact achillphonefree@gmail.com, phone or text 086 3408649, or contact Achill Smartphone Free Childhood on Facebook.

“Our aim is simple, to support children’s wellbeing and help them enjoy a safe, balanced and happy childhood,” said the group.

READ MORE: Mayo airport launches busiest summer schedule in 40-year history