How to Start a Local Parent Group

A step-by-step guide for bringing your community together to protect childhood

Starting a local parent group can feel daunting, but it is often just a few conversations away. With a clear mission, consistent communication, and community energy, you can create a space where parents support each other in changing the norms around childhood screen use and influence positive change in your schools and neighborhoods.

Step 1: Gather Your Core Team

You don’t need a big group to begin. Many great movements have started with just two or three parents talking over coffee.

  • Start with people you know. Invite a couple of friends or parents from your child’s school who share your concerns.

  • Pick a simple starting point. Your first focus could be raising awareness, encouraging phone-free schools, or simply supporting each other as families.

  • Set an easy first goal. For example: “Bring parents together to share ideas and encourage phone-free childhoods until at least age 16.”

  • Stay connected in small ways. Even meeting once a month for coffee or on Zoom is enough to keep things moving forward.

Step 2: Decide Your Structure

Before you go too far, decide how you want to set up your group.

  • Independent group: Create your own local organization with its own mission, events, and identity.

  • Chapter of an existing movement: Connect with established organizations such as Wait Until 8th, MAMA, OK to Delay, or The Balance Project to start an official chapter in your area.

  • Consider the benefits of each option and choose what best fits your time, energy, and goals.

  • Check out a few of the groups in our Parent Group Locator map for ideas!

Step 3: Choose a Name and Create a Logo

A clear name and simple logo make it easier for people to remember your group and recognize your events.

  • Brainstorm a name that reflects your mission and feels welcoming.

  • Several SFCxUS members have started organizations using the name “reConnect:<Your City Name>”. If this name is of interest to you, contact us and we can quickly customize the logo below for you.

  • Use your name and logo consistently on flyers, social media, and handouts so people know they’ve found the right group.

Step 4: Find Other Parents in Your Area

Cast a wide net. Many parents feel the same way and are looking for connection.

  • Join your state group within the SFCxUS Parent Community to connect with others nearby.

  • Sign and share the SFCxUS Declaration of Digital Independence. This is a great conversation starter.

  • Talk to friends. You may be surprised how many share your concerns.

  • Post in community spaces such as neighborhood groups, PTA or PTO pages, Nextdoor, and Facebook parent groups.

  • Ask for time at a PTA or PTO meeting to share your mission.

  • Request that your school principal include a note about your group in the school newsletter.

  • Host an information table at school or community events such as Back to School Night, Parent Night, or local fairs.

Step 5: Build Your Group’s Digital Home Base

Your group’s online presence is how parents will find you, stay connected, and share your mission with others. Make it simple, clear, and welcoming.

  • Launch a website. Build your own or contact us to receive a ready-to-use Google Site template you can customize and publish quickly. Example

  • Create social media pages. Use Facebook or Instagram to share updates, event info, and resources with your community. Example

  • Set up a communication hub. The Four Norms platform is an easy way for organizers to connect and coordinate. Example

  • Collect parent information. Create a Google Form so you can keep track of interested families and send updates. Example

  • Define your mission and vision. Keep it short, relatable, and action-oriented so visitors instantly understand your purpose.

  • Share valuable resources. Post research, videos, articles, and recaps of your events.

  • Include calls to action. Encourage parents to sign the Declaration, attend events, and invite others to join.

Step 6: Host Your First Event

An event is where connections grow. Always include a clear next step or call to action.

Ideas:

  • Informal gathering such as coffee at a local café or a meeting in someone’s home to share stories, concerns, and solutions. Consider making it a regular monthly event.

  • Alternative Device Fair to showcase simple, non-smart devices for kids. Contact SFCxUS for example fliers.

  • Book club or discussion starting with The Anxious Generation or other SFCxUS-recommended books.

  • Formal presentations such as a talk and Q&A featuring experts like Catherine Price (link to video) or using SFCxUS’s discussion guides.

  • Documentary screenings of The Social Dilemma, Childhood 2.0, or Can’t Look Away followed by group discussion.

Step 7: Partner With Local Organizations

Your group’s voice becomes stronger with allies.

  • Collaborate with schools by offering to speak at assemblies or parent nights.

  • Reach out to libraries, community centers, and youth organizations to co-host events.

  • Work with mental health professionals who can speak to the effects of technology on kids and help amplify your message.

Step 8: Keep the Momentum Going

A thriving group needs consistent engagement.

  • Host regular meetups such as monthly or quarterly gatherings.

  • Share quick wins, for example stories of families making changes, new school policies, or inspiring news articles.

  • Welcome newcomers warmly so they can easily plug in and participate.

Remember:

You do not have to start big. Many successful groups began with two or three parents talking around a kitchen table. With intention, connection, and persistence, you can help change the culture around kids, technology, and childhood in your community.