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Wait Until 8th

Admin
September 11, 2026 / 5 mins read

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Palmyra Families –

Today, we’re sharing information about a community-led movement called Wait Until 8th – a simple, but powerful idea: delay giving our kids a smartphone until at least the end of 8th grade … and do it together.

You’re Invited To:

One of the best parts of the Wait Until 8th pledge is how it harnesses the power of community.

Today, we’re seeing kids getting smartphones as early as 3rd grade. For some families, that timing works—but for others, it feels a bit too soon. Still, it can be hard to hold off when it seems like everyone else is saying yes. The Wait Until 8th movement helps families say “not yet” together. This gives our kids a few more years to grow, play, and build real-world connections without the added pressure and distractions that come with smartphones.

More About Wait Until 8th: The concept is to delay kids' having smartphones until at least the end of 8th grade ... and by connecting with other families doing the same, build a community in numbers.

Why Consider Waiting Until 8th: There are a variety of reasons why families might consider waiting to give their kids smartphones, including the distractions, addictive nature, sleep impairment, relationship interference, mental health implications and more.

FAQs: The number one question asked is: what if I need to get in touch with my student before the end of 8th grade? There's a robust set of FAQs on the website, but to answer this popular question: this pledge is only for smartphones, so you can still utilize basic phones, two-way watches, even iPads if that’s what works for your family.

How It Works: Once 10 or more families from the same grade at the same school sign the pledge, it becomes active, and you'll be connected with other families who signed the pledge. That means you’re not doing it alone—and neither is your child.

Here in Palmyra, we already have TWO active pledge groups:

  • Forge Road Elementary – 4th Grade
  • Lingle Avenue Elementary – 2025-26 Kindergarten Class (now 1st graders across the district)

Join the Movement: The pledge helps connect families who want to wait. It turns what can feel like an isolated decision into a shared movement. If this is right for your family, we encourage you to sign the pledge! If it’s not the right fit, no problem at all. And if you’re on the fence, check out Waituntil8th.org and the “Wait Until 8th Palmyra” Instagram page.