Collective action starts here.
We’re a statewide coalition working toward a cultural shift in our approach to screens & social media during childhood and adolescence.
What is PA Unplugged?
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A hub for collective action
PA Unplugged brings together local efforts across Pennsylvania into one unified space. While local initiatives should continue to grow and thrive, PA Unplugged provides the infrastructure to connect them — amplifying impact, supporting coordination, and showing legislators that this is a growing movement across PA.
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A unified voice for policy change
Our legislative team meets regularly with Pennsylvania lawmakers to advocate for policies that support distraction free schools and stronger online safety standards for kids.
The Unplugged Commitment shows legislators and local schools that families are already making changes at home, and that they’re ready to see those changes reflected in policies and laws.
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A source of support and resources
We curate and share trusted tools, research, and educational resources to strengthen existing local efforts and help support new ones. Cultural change starts with awareness. We’re here to equip parents, educators, and advocates with the information they need to take action in their own communities.
Find your people.
Search by district. Search by grade. Trust us. You’re not alone.
PA Unplugged Families
Please select a school district above to see families in your area.
110 families with 250 children have signed the commitment!
The Commitment
Wait until at least 9th grade to give your child(ren) a smart phone. Prior to high school, explore “talk and text” only devices for communication needs.
Delay social media until at least 16, or until you feel it will be a positive addition to your child(ren)’s lives.
Model positive technology behaviors in and outside of your home.
Support free-roam play, independence, and screen-free experiences in your community.
Technology is disrupting childhood. We are pushing back.
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By age 4, more than half (58%) of children have their own tablet. By age 8, nearly 1 in 4 children have their own cellphone.
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For mobile phones and social media, both high and increasing addictive use were associated with 2-3x greater risk of suicidal behavior and suicidal ideation. Nearly 1 in 2 kids demonstrated “high addictive use” with mobile phones, 1 in 3 with social media, and over 40% with video games.
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4.8 hours. The amount of time the average teen spends on social media each day. That is nearly 35 hours per week — close to a full-time job.
