I am delighted to share a wonderful story about one of our very own, Katelyn Moore, who has recently been crowned Miss Simpsonville Teen. Katelyn is an impressive and well-spoken young woman who exemplifies the values and spirit of our community. She is talented, dedicated, and a true ambassador of Simpsonville. She exemplified all of these traits when she presented herself to City Council at our business meeting on June 11th.  Katelyn has an awesome family as well. It’s not too surprising that she is awesome.

Beyond her many achievements, Katelyn is a passionate advocate for the “Wait Until 8th” cause, a movement I wholeheartedly support. The “Wait Until 8th” pledge encourages parents to delay giving their children a smartphone until at least the end of 8th grade. This initiative is crucial in preserving the precious years of childhood from the distractions and dangers posed by smartphones.

By joining this pledge, parents can empower themselves and each other to protect the elementary and middle school years. It helps reduce the social pressure on children to have a smartphone at an early age, ensuring they can enjoy outdoor play, time with friends, reading, and family interactions without the constant pull of digital distractions.

More than 60,000 parents across the country have already embraced this cause, making a significant impact in their communities. The average age for children to receive their first smartphone is currently ten, but together, we can change this trend and safeguard our children’s formative years.

Smartphones, while ubiquitous, bring numerous challenges, including distractions and potential dangers. They often intrude into classrooms, social settings, and even family dinners, altering the natural course of childhood. Many parents feel overwhelmed by this issue and need community support to make a stand.

By signing the “Wait Until 8th” pledge, you commit to not giving your child a smartphone until at least the end of 8th grade, provided that at least ten families from your child’s grade and school also pledge. This collective effort helps build a supportive network of parents who share the same goal.

For those needing to stay connected, the pledge supports the use of basic phones and smartwatches that allow calls and texts without the many distractions of a smartphone. These alternatives provide a balance, ensuring safety and connectivity without the downsides of a fully-fledged smartphone.

I encourage all Simpsonville parents to consider joining this important cause. Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of our children, ensuring they grow up in an environment that values real-life interactions and experiences over screen time.

Let’s rally behind Katelyn Moore and the “Wait Until 8th” movement to create a brighter, healthier future for our children.

Sincerely,

Mayor Paul

PHOTO: Miss Simpsonville Teen Katelyn Moore made a presentation to Simpsonville City Council at the June business meeting about her experience as Miss Simpsonville Teen and platfrom “Wait Until 8th.” From left, Councilmen Chad O’Rear (Ward I) and Aaron Rupe (Ward II), Councilwoman Shannon Williams (Ward III), Miss Simpsonville Teen Katelyn Moore, Mayor Paul Shewmaker and councilmen Tim Pinkerton (Ward V) and Lou Hutchings (Ward VI).