Have you noticed more children walking through town with their heads down, looking at their phones? Or wondered what parents can do about the growing impact of social media and excessive screen use on our children?
By age eight, nearly one in four children already own a smartphone, and nearly half of U.S. teens report being online “almost constantly” (Common Sense Media; Pew Research Center).
The scale of the problem is clear. But the answer isn’t simply asking kids to put down their phones. We need to give them something to do instead. Children need places to gather, opportunities for free play and the freedom to build friendships and independence away from screens. That takes intentional community support.
In March 2026, a Granby Mothers Against Media Addiction (MAMA) chapter was launched and quickly grew to more than 25 members. As they learned and shared together, they realized the group wanted broader resources, local fundraising tools, and a stronger platform to build on that momentum. They found all of that in The Balance Project, a growing nonprofit movement active in more than 285 communities across 48 states. The project is focused on reducing screen time, delaying smartphones and restoring the real-world experiences essential to a healthy childhood.
Locally, that means creating opportunities for free play and connection, and helping to build community “third spaces” where children can gather, explore, and develop independence outside of school and home. Research suggests that once a committed minority reaches roughly 25 percent of a group, cultural norms can shift rapidly. Granby’s MAMA members strive to be that committed minority in Granby.
Members envision a community where families have access to tech-free environments and activities, where community education helps parents understand both the harms of excessive screen use and ways to protect children, and where schools thoughtfully and transparently use age-appropriate technology, including limited cell phone use.
As one of its first initiatives, MAMA started a drop-in playdate at the Salmon Brook Park playground. This was followed by the community Tin Can Phone program launched in partnership with the PTO. This initiative gives families an opportunity to obtain a discounted simple phone enabling children to stay connected without a smartphone.
Future plans include Play Clubs that are designated times for unstructured, multi-age free play as well as providing educational sessions for families. Most importantly, the group will continue hosting monthly community discussions and screen-free social outings, believing that even in a digitally-connected world, the most valuable connections are still the ones made in person.
If this vision resonates with you, you’re invited to learn more, participate, and help build a more connected, balanced childhood for Granby’s kids.
Learn more and join the Granby Balance Project community by following this link.