The Not Yet platform, powered by Loftie, is a pledge for parents inspired by Jonathan Haidt's book The Anxious Generation. It encourages families to commit to not giving smartphones to their kids until they reach 9th grade, delaying access to social media until they are 16, and supporting a screen and social media-free lifestyle at home and at school. The goal is to foster healthier development and independence in children by limiting early exposure to these technologies.

Signing the Not Yet pledge is a proactive step towards mitigating the negative impacts of early technology use on children. Studies suggest that excessive screen time and social media use can affect mental health, academic performance, and social skills. By committing to this pledge, you help ensure your child develops resilience, strong interpersonal skills, and better sleep hygiene, while also fostering an environment that supports healthy development.

While it might seem that limiting technology could affect your child’s social life, many parents find that it encourages more face-to-face interactions and participation in extracurricular activities. Schools and social circles increasingly recognize the benefits of such boundaries, and children often adapt well, developing deeper interpersonal skills and more balanced social lives.

If your child already has a smartphone or social media accounts, the pledge still offers valuable guidance on managing technology use. It provides a framework for reducing screen time and gradually fostering healthier technology habits. You can work with your child to establish new guidelines that align with the principles of the Not Yet pledge.

There are lots of great “dumb phone” options out there, many with advanced features, just not social media. Check out Dumb Wireless for some great options.

Loftie is a family-owned company that makes stylish products designed to help families rest, relax, and recharge. Early in the company’s history, a writer at Forbes observed, “Loftie is as much a social mission as it is a business venture.” That could not be more true as we proudly launch not yet. “Less screen, more dream” has been our tagline from day one and we mean it. We’re committed to getting the phone out of the bedroom, parents and kids alike.