For Families

The move to a phone-free school day is a positive change, and with a little preparation, the transition can be seamless. Research shows families adapt within days of implementation, resulting in more reliable communication and less anxiety for everyone.

How to Get Ready

Research shows families adapt within days of implementation. The result in more reliable communication and less anxiety for everyone.

Talk About It

Have open conversations with your child about the reasons for the new policy. Focus on the benefits:

Less drama and social pressure
More genuine friendships
Better focus in school
mproved mental health

Conversation Starters:

"How do you think your day might be different without checking your phone?"
"What activities could you do during lunch instead of scrolling?"
"How might this help you focus better in your favorite subjects?"

Establish Routines

Plan ahead for smooth communication:

Morning routine: Establish what needs to be communicated before school starts
After-school plans: Make arrangements the night before or in the morning
Emergency contacts: Ensure your child knows who to contact through the school office
Pickup arrangements: Set consistent meeting spots and times

Pro tip: Most schools have reliable systems for relaying messages through the main office—the same systems that worked well before everyone had cell phones.

Model Healthy Habits

Children learn by example. Consider implementing these practices at home:

Create phone-free family dinner times
Establish "phone parking" areas where devices charge overnight (not in bedrooms)
Designate screen-free hours in the evening
Show your children that you can be present without constantly checking your device

Know What To Do In An Emergency

Important Safety Facts:

Schools have comprehensive emergency notification systems that work more effectively than individual cell phones
Safety experts confirm that cellphones can actually impede safety during a crisis by:
- Distracting from critical instructions
- Overloading cell networks
- Spreading misinformation that creates panic
School administrators can send accurate alerts directly to all parents simultaneously
Staff can focus entirely on student safety rather than managing phone-related behaviors

Your school will provide:

Clear information about their emergency communication system
Multiple ways to receive urgent notifications
Procedures for contacting your child during the school day

Understand the "Why"

Our children are facing a mental health crisis directly linked to smartphone and social media use. Understanding these facts can help you support the bell-to-bell policy and your child's wellbeing.

Mental Health Emergency

Youth spending 3+ hours daily on social media face DOUBLE the risk of negative mental health outcomes
Teens spending 5+ hours daily are 2.5 times more likely to experience suicidal thoughts
1 in 3 teen girls seriously consider attempting suicide - up nearly 60% from a decade ago

The Daily Impact

97% of students use phones during school hours
Students receive 237+ notifications daily (23% during school)
Average teen spends 4.8 hours daily on social media
43 minutes of learning time lost each day to distractions

Learn More About How We Got to This Crisis Point

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Why Bell-to-Bell Protection Works

Academic Benefits:

44% decrease in behavioral referrals
6.27% increase in academic success rates
75% decrease in discipline referrals
Notable improvements in test scores and engagement

Social Benefits:

43-46% reduction in bullying
Enhanced face-to-face communication skills
Stronger peer relationships
More active and engaged lunch periods

Learn More About the Proven Benefits of Bell-to-Bell Phone Restrictions

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The move to a phone-free school day is a positive change, and with a little preparation, the transition can be seamless for families.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions and concerns about the new bell-to-bell policy that we have heard from school districts that have already successfully implemented such plans.

Q: Will I be able to contact my child in an emergency?

A: Under the new law, every school will have established, reliable methods for parents to contact their children and for the school to communicate with families during an emergency.

Safety experts and law enforcement professionals report that cellphones can impede safety during a crisis. Student cellphones can distract from critical instructions, overload networks needed by first responders, and spread misinformation that creates panic.

Q: How will I let my child know about a last-minute change in plans or appointments?

A: Schools with bell-to-bell policies have effective systems for routine communication. The school office is equipped to relay urgent messages to students. For non-urgent matters, students can check their phones immediately after dismissal.

Q: My child has after-school sports or activities. How will they know if practice is canceled?

A: Schools successfully address this through several approaches. Athletic departments coordinate directly with coaches and school staff to relay schedule changes to students. Many schools with phone pouches unlock them before athletic periods begin, allowing students to check for updates.

Q: My older child is responsible for picking up their younger siblings. How will they coordinate?

A: School policies can account for these responsibilities. Phones are accessible immediately at dismissal, which is when siblings are typically picked up. For any unexpected changes, the school office can always relay a message. The law also allows for schools to create special provisions for students with documented caregiver responsibilities.

Q: What about students with medical conditions that require a phone for monitoring?

A: The law includes a specific exception for students who need a device for the management of their healthcare, such as monitoring for diabetes. This exemption requires proper documentation from a medical professional and is specific to the medical need; it does not allow for general phone use.

Q: Won't this policy just get in the way of teachers using technology for learning?

A: No. The law allows teachers to authorize the use of devices for specific educational purposes. However, the policy does not affect the use of school-issued devices like laptops or tablets, which are more effective educational tools without the distraction of social media.

Research & Documents

Find curated links and tools to help you explore the movement’s core ideas and support students in a phone-free learning environment.

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