Many parents are concerned about the increasing screen time for students in schools. While technology in education is essential, some believe it’s being overused. Teachers like Stein highlight a common issue: “The default is always to use screens,” he says. This raises the question of whether every assignment truly needs to be online.
The Montgomery County Council of Parent-Teacher Associations is advocating for schools to offer “non-screen alternatives” for families aiming to limit their children’s exposure to screens. Lisa Cline, a parent from Montgomery County, opted her son out of using school-issued screens as early as third grade. She hopes to launch a national campaign, together with Fairplay for Kids, pushing for an “opt-in” system instead of the current “opt-out.”
Parents face challenges when trying to limit technology use. In Fullerton, California, Nicki Petrossi refused to sign consent forms for her kids’ laptops. She was told by the school district that state rules required computers for their curriculum. This has been a common challenge across the country, as districts adapt to a tech-driven education model.
Petrossi eventually found a low-tech charter school that emphasizes a classical education. She believes that understanding the pressures behind technology use in schools is crucial. She even started a podcast called “Scrolling 2 Death” to discuss these issues with teachers from across the nation. Along with co-founding the Tech-Safe Learning Coalition, she created templates for parents to advocate for less technology in classrooms.
Recent data supports this shift in perspective. A study by Common Sense Media found that 44% of parents believe kids spend too much time on screens, and 71% prefer schools to limit technology. These statistics show that many parents share the same concerns about the impact of excessive screen time on learning and well-being.
In the end, the conversation around technology in education is just beginning. More parents are seeking a balance between the benefits of tech and the need for a more hands-on, engaging learning experience. As schools navigate this balance, it’s essential to listen to the voices of parents, teachers, and experts in the field.
For more insights, you can check out Common Sense Media’s report on screen time: Common Sense Media.
