Reclaiming Childhood: Navigating the Smartphone Dilemma Together

by Marina Kiriakou -

In an age where smartphones have become almost an extension of ourselves, the digital landscape can feel overwhelming for parents.  The allure of constant connectivity is undeniable, yet as adults, we often reflect on the impact this has on our children.  The question looms large: when is the right time to introduce smartphones to our kids?  As parents in the Mamaroneck and Rye Neck school districts grapple with this dilemma, a local initiative, IRL (In Real Life), is stepping up to support families in navigating these challenges.

A Community-Focused Approach

Founded in 2023, IRL is a parent-led nonprofit organization that has rapidly expanded its reach across Westchester County.  With active chapters in Larchmont-Mamaroneck, Rye Neck, Rye, Scarsdale, and Nyack, the organization’s mission is to empower families to delay smartphone usage, reduce screen dependence, and foster meaningful connections.

Lisa Nadler, the IRL Rye Neck Chapter Lead, emphasizes the importance of community in this effort.  “When parents come together and take collective action, they feel empowered to help shift the cultural norm,” she explains.  This collective effort is evident, with nearly 1,000 Westchester parents pledging to delay smartphone use for their children in the coming year. This movement reflects a growing desire for alternatives to screen reliance, allowing families to reclaim time spent together.

The Alternative Device Fair

One of the standout events hosted by IRL is the Second Annual Alternative Device Fair, scheduled for Saturday, November 22, from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at St. Thomas Church, located at 168 West Boston Post Road in Mamaroneck.  This event presents a fantastic opportunity for parents and children to explore kid-friendly devices that limit internet and social media access.

With leading brands like Bark, Gabb, Troomi, Light Phone, Pinwheel, and Dumb Wireless showcasing their products, families can find safe communication options that align with their values.  Last year, over 400 families participated in the fair, and this year’s turnout is expected to be even larger.  The fair provides a welcoming space for parents to ask questions and explore solutions to the smartphone dilemma without judgment, fostering a sense of community and support.

Building Community Through Events

IRL's commitment to community extends beyond the fair.  The organization also hosts a variety of screen-smart events, expert panels, and parent workshops in collaboration with local organizations like the Rye Youth Council and the Larchmont-Mamaroneck Community Counseling Center (LMCCC).

This fall, parents are invited to attend “The Great Parental Reset: Defending Your Values and Restoring Your Authority in the Digital Age.”  This workshop aims to help parents understand the effects of screen time on child development and develop strategies for setting healthy tech boundaries.  By equipping parents with practical tools, IRL aims to empower families to navigate the digital landscape confidently.  Dates for these workshops can be found on the IRL website (below).

Creating Screen-Free Spaces for Children

In addition to workshops, IRL is dedicated to creating screen-free environments where children can play and socialize in person. The Larchmont-Mamaroneck Chapter is relaunching local spaces like The Cove, designed specifically for middle schoolers.  These spaces offer a

welcoming atmosphere where kids can unplug, build friendships, and engage in real-life community activities.

Creating these environments is crucial, as they help reinforce the idea that life offline can be rich with joy and connection.  By promoting face-to-face interactions, IRL aims to counter the isolating effects of excessive screen time.

Advocacy and Partnerships

IRL is also actively involved in advocacy efforts aimed at raising awareness about the impacts of screen time on developing brains.  Recently, the organization partnered with the county-wide initiative Disconnect to Reconnect (D2R), allowing IRL leaders to engage in conversations with state officials, including New York State Senator Shelley Mayer.  These discussions aim to influence legislation that benefits families, demonstrating IRL’s commitment to being a voice for parents and children alike.

Join the Movement

Parents in Mamaroneck and Rye Neck are encouraged to join this positive cultural shift. Here are some ways to get involved:

-  Attend local events and fairs to discover kid-safe devices.

-  Participate in workshops and panels for practical parenting tools.

-  Volunteer or start a local chapter to support fellow families.

-  Spread the word to friends, schools, and communities.

Every small action—whether it’s organizing a device-free playdate or taking a family walk—helps to show children that life offline can be fulfilling.

Navigating the smartphone landscape can be daunting, but local initiatives like IRL provide invaluable resources and community support for families.  By engaging with these programs, parents can feel more confident in their choices, ultimately fostering a healthier environment for their children.

For more information about IRL and upcoming events, visit http://weareirl.org  or contact Lisa Nadler, Rye Neck Co-Lead, at contact@weareirl.org