Make a Pledge to Delay a Smart Phone with Wait Mate

Many families are realising that now is the time to make a pledge with their daughter, to step away from the constant pull of smartphones and reclaim focus and presence. The endless notifications, apps, and social media feeds have become more than just a tool, for many young people they have become a distraction from learning, genuine relationships, and personal growth. Wait Mate can assist you if your daughter does not yet have a mobile phone.

Introducing Wait Mait

Wait Mait is an organisation dedicated to helping families delay the introduction of smartphones for children. Their mission is: to encourage young people to “wait” before entering the smartphone world, and instead embrace healthier habits, deeper connections, and more mindful technology use. Through resources, community support, and shared pledges, Wait Mait empowers families to stand together and resist the pressure to give children full access to smartphones before they are ready.

How it works

If you’re your daughter does not yet own a mobile phone, now may be the perfect time to consider making a pledge together with Wait Mate. Their approach allows families to agree on the academic school year they will wait until before introducing a device, helping to take the pressure off both parents and children.

In the sign-up process you select your daughter's school campus, add her name and initial of surname. A few moments later you will receive an email informing you of other families in your daughter's year that have also made a pledge. You may be surprised to learn how many other St Hilda's parents are thinking the same way and are ready to stand together on this issue.

The decision about when to introduce a mobile phone is a personal choice. However, if you feel that you want to delay this pivotal moment, it’s important to remember that you are not alone. Organisations like Wait Mate show that many parents are choosing to delay smartphones, not to deny their daughters independence, but to protect their natural curiosity and childhood.