Erin Napier, the HGTV personality and mother of two, is championing a movement towards screen-limited and social media-free childhoods until high school graduation through her organization, Osprey (Old School Parents Raising Engaged Youth). The initiative aims to bring together families who share these values and create a supportive community for parents and children.
Erin highlights the unique perspective of millennial parents who have experienced life before and after the digital age, leading them to prioritize a delayed introduction of smartphones for their children. This shift in parenting approach is also being echoed by celebrity parents like Matthew McConaughey and Drew Barrymore, who are setting guidelines for social media use within their families.
Osprey recently organized its first Osprey Festival in Laurel, Missouri, offering workshops for kids focused on activities such as woodworking, art, gardening, and music. The event also featured presentations for parents on best practices and safety measures for children in the digital age.
Erin emphasizes the importance of real-world engagement for children, citing examples from her own family where outdoor activities and skill-building have boosted her daughters' confidence and creativity. She believes that fostering talents and self-assurance in children outside of social media exposure is crucial for their development.
Despite challenges in promoting the event on social media platforms, Erin remains committed to her principles, including limiting her daughters' online presence and prioritizing outdoor play and family time. She and her husband, Ben Napier, model positive behavior by minimizing screen time and focusing on quality interactions with their children.
Erin envisions a future where the values promoted by Osprey become common sense, leading to a shift in societal norms around children's access to technology. By advocating for a more intentional and engaged approach to parenting, Erin hopes to create a supportive environment where families can thrive without the constant influence of screens and social media.
