Families may be interested in exploring Waitmate.org.au — a not-for-profit Australian website created by parents to support delaying smartphone use until high school.

Waitmate encourages collective action among parents to reduce the pressure children feel around owning smartphones during their primary school years. The initiative is inspired by similar movements overseas, such as Wait Until 8th in the United States and Smartphone Free Childhood in the UK.

The website offers:

• Research on the impact of early smartphone use
• Resources for families considering alternatives to smartphones
• A voluntary pledge for parents who wish to delay smartphone access
• Opportunities to connect with other like-minded families

Waitmate’s goal is to help children enjoy a longer, play-based childhood and reduce risks associated with screen time, such as distraction, anxiety, and social comparison.

To learn more or explore the resources, visit www.waitmate.org.au.