A pledge by EGR families
We're a community of East Grand Rapids families supporting each other in delaying smartphones and social media.
We pledge to
*Watches and flip phones / dumb phones are A-OK.
Sign here!The what behind the village
01
Watches, flip phones, and dumb phones are allowed. There are increasingly more options available, but the spirit of the pledge is to limit apps, internet browsing, and social media access.
02
This isn't a binding commitment, and it's not about getting it perfect. It's simply a way for families who want to wait to support each other. Every family will make the decision that works best for them.
03
This is not just about taking something away. We also want to create opportunities for real-life fun, connection, and independence for our kids.
04
This is a grassroots effort created by EGR families, not an official school program. There are no "pledge police." If this no longer works for your family at some point, that's okay. Circumstances change.
The why behind the village
01
As we all know, social media and technology can impact mental health, attention, academic performance, and overall well-being. This is not about saying "never." It's about introducing technology gradually and intentionally, and allowing our kids more time to grow without additional pressures.
02
"I'm the only one" doesn't have to be true here. The more families that sign, the easier it becomes for the kids and parents in EGR. Collective action is what makes this work.
03
Signing the pledge helps set expectations for your child and signals support within the community. Parents find that once expectations are clear, the pressure and requests for a smartphone/social media decreases.
Real-life fun, no screens required
Class of 2032
March 1, 2026 · 5:30–7:30 PM
GR Skate · 14 52nd St SE
In the spirit of the pledge, EGRMS 6th graders skated, glowed, and ate their weight in pizza. Ticket covered skates, pizza, soda, and a cookie.
November 16, 2025 · 5:30–7:30 PM
Clique Lanes (upstairs!) · 533 Stocking Ave NW
A phone-free night with the upstairs at Clique reserved just for our group — snacks, pizzas, and 2 hours of bowling with shoes included. A whole lot of strikes (and a few gutters).
We'd love to talk about the pledge