Family IT Guy Podcast

How One Parent Took on Smartphones in Elementary School — and Changed a Community


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When smartphones started showing up in 1st grade, Meri knew something had to change. As a PR expert and mom who understood AI, algorithms, and why these devices are so addictive, she dove into the research—and then took action.


In this episode, we talk about how she:

1. Partnered with schools and clinical psychologists to educate kids AND parents

2. Helped implement Wait Until 8th in her community

3. Worked with school leadership on behavior impacts from devices and social media

4. Started a “Tech Corner” in school and church newsletters

5. Equipped parents with the data they needed to make informed choices

6. Built a like-minded community instead of fighting the battle alone


Her mission?

Arm parents with information so they can protect their kids’ brains—not just hope tech companies or the government will. Actionable steps for parents (we cover in detail):

• Alternatives to smartphones

• Parent email template you can send TODAY (email [email protected] for template)

• How to build a community of like-minded families:

– FITG Community: https://lnk.bio/s/84ae0

– @WaitUntil8th: https://lnk.bio/s/fd234

– TinCan Phone pods: https://lnk.bio/s/1074b

– Playdates with shared rules

– No-photo posting waivers at school

• How to confidently start conversations with other parents

Your kids’ safety isn’t up for grabs—and you don’t have to wait for someone else to draw the line.


Watch now and share with a parent who needs this!


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Family IT Guy PodcastBy Family IT Guy