Tell the FCC: Protect Kids From Excessive Screen Time in Schools

Children are spending more of their school day on screens, and parents deserve a say. The FCC is reviewing its E-Rate program, which provides $3 billion in annual funding for internet connectivity in schools and libraries for educational purposes. The FCC is asking whether additional safeguards are needed to protect children from excessive screen time and support genuine learning.

Research has associated greater screen time with poorer academic and health outcomes. One analysis found that students who used devices at school for 5-7 hours per day scored an average of 12 points lower on math than students who used devices for 3-5 hours per day. HHS has also issued a Surgeon General’s warning about harms associated with screen use. The warning identifies compulsive behaviors that can manifest in relation to screen use, including constantly asking to use screens, symptoms of emotional withdrawal when away from screens, inability to fulfill responsibilities, impaired relationships, reduced physical activity, and hiding or lying about screen use.

Tell the FCC to put children first. Ask for age-appropriate screen-time protections, meaningful parental choice and opt-out options, transparent school policies, and effective alternatives to unnecessary screen-based instruction. Share how screens are used at your child’s school and how that affects learning or well-being.

Please take action by November 12.