START | Stand Together And Rethink Technology

westartnow.org

When Steve Jobs introduced the iPhone 12 years ago, he promised it would change the world, and it really has. In many ways, our lives are greatly improved and enriched by today’s technologies. However, we are also learning that in our rush to have the latest tech products, we are accidentally experiencing some harmful side effects, including rising rates of anxiety, depression and even suicide for our nation’s kids. Digitally, our kids are more connected than ever — yet more disconnected from real relationships. And families are on the frontlines of this epidemic; surveys show that the #1 battleground families struggle with is technology. We are the first generation of parents to face these concerns. It’s like we are in a new frontier, and there is no roadmap. There is no handbook for parents telling us how to navigate this new territory. Parents are asking: how exactly DO we raise kids to maximize the benefits of tech, and minimize its harmful side effects? That’s why we founded Screen Sanity (formerly called START). Our parent-education program help parents consider the role technology plays in their lives, create a family media plan that honors their core values, and connect with their kids in meaningful ways — both offline and online. However, this program is just the start. In order to optimize its impact, we also work with community stakeholders to explore ways they can support and reinforce healthy tech use in their spheres of influence. We believe that we are on the precipice of the greatest legacy we could leave the next generation: a world where kids are captivated by life, not screens, and communities come together to pursue lives well lived.