Consider Pledging to Reduce Your Screen Time by 25% in 2025
Sign The Pledge
In November 2024, Governor Glenn Youngkin hosted the Reclaiming Childhood Youth Mental Health Summit, bringing together experts, parents, and community leaders to address the growing youth mental health crisis. At the summit, he issued Executive Order (EO) 43, launching a statewide effort to support families in protecting children from the harmful effects of addictive social media and excessive screen time.
This website serves as a hub for resources, including tools for parents, updates on ongoing initiatives, and the Reclaiming Childhood Pledge — a commitment to reduce screen time by 25% in 2025.
The Reclaiming Childhood Task Force — created by EO 43 — is continuing this work by engaging families, educators, and experts to develop real solutions.
Supporting Families in a Digital Age
Explore resources, conversations, and strategies to empower families, enhance student success, and navigate the challenges of technology responsibly.
Community Conversation
Conversation with First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin and Jonathan Haidt, author of The Anxious Generation
Tips for Parenting in a Digital Age
Practical tips to reduce smartphone screen time and live life off-screen
Executive Order 43
Empowerment and support for parents to protect their children from social media
Executive Order 33
Guidance on the establishment of cell phone-free education policies and procedures
Top 10 Tips for Student Success
Key insights and strategies to support children's academic, social, and emotional success, backed by meaningful data
Mindful Screen Use Strategies
Actionable strategies to promote mindful screen use, helping align tech habits with well-being and personal values
Happiness Resources with Arthur Brooks
Commonwealth Resources
Virginia is dedicated to improving youth mental health through comprehensive services and initiatives. These resources address behavioral health, social-emotional wellness, and public safety, fostering resilience and positive outcomes for children and families. Click on each organization's name to learn more.
CEP-Va fosters collaboration with public and private stakeholders to enhance access to behavioral health services across the Commonwealth. By leveraging evidence-based insights, the Center provides scientific guidance on system performance and strategies to strengthen workforce capacity. Through co-designed initiatives, CEP-Va advances equitable, accessible, and informed behavioral health solutions for Virginians.
DARS empowers individuals with disabilities through vocational rehabilitation services aimed at preparing, securing, and maintaining employment. Eligibility is based on having a disability that impacts the ability to work, and being a Virginia resident. With personalized support, DARS helps individuals achieve greater independence and success in the workforce.
DBHDS Developmental Services supports individuals with developmental disabilities and their families by promoting independence and inclusion. The division provides access to developmental disability waivers, community integration, employment opportunities, and specialized services like Mobile Rehabilitation Engineering and behavioral health resources. DBHDS is dedicated to fostering equitable, quality services that build inclusive communities.
DJJ oversees local Court Service Units and the Bon Air Juvenile Correctional Center, ensuring accountability and rehabilitation for youth in the juvenile justice system. DJJ works to promote public safety while providing resources to support positive youth development.
The DOE Office of Behavioral Health and Student Safety addresses post-pandemic mental health challenges in schools through leadership, resources, and initiatives. By fostering positive learning environments and promoting social-emotional wellness, the office aims to improve student outcomes and academic success while preparing to launch the Virginia Comprehensive Behavioral Health Framework.
DSS partners with local social service departments and community organizations to enhance the well-being of children and families. Offering a wide array of benefits and services, DSS supports Virginia's most vulnerable citizens through a collaborative network of dedicated professionals working to build brighter futures.
OBHW leads prevention initiatives across Virginia, addressing behavioral health disparities, substance use, and mental health challenges through evidence-based strategies. With programs like “Lock and Talk” and efforts in suicide and opioid misuse prevention, OBHW supports communities with innovative, data-driven approaches to wellness.
OCFS envisions a comprehensive system of care for children with behavioral health needs, ensuring they and their families thrive. By improving service access, promoting best practices, and integrating behavioral health into schools and primary care, the office fosters resilience and equity across communities.
OCO advocates for children’s welfare by investigating complaints related to child protective services, foster care, and adoption cases. With a commitment to impartiality, independence, and confidentiality, the office works to ensure compliance with laws and policies while recommending systemic improvements for Virginia’s child welfare system.
OCS administers the Children's Services Act (CSA), a collaborative funding system for at-risk youth and their families. Through partnerships with local agencies, CSA provides tailored, community-based services to address the strengths and needs of children while promoting family-centered solutions.
OSUS connects Virginians to critical resources for substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery. Through community services boards (CSBs), OSUS supports individuals and families affected by substance use disorders and promotes initiatives like REVIVE! naloxone training and specialized programs for women and families.
VDH safeguards public health through its central office and local health districts. VDH addresses chronic diseases, tracks outbreaks, and promotes healthy lifestyles. With national accreditation for excellence, the agency is committed to improving community health across the Commonwealth.
Upcoming Event
Reclaiming Childhood: Commonwealth Conversation on Building the Life You Want
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Doors open at 6:30; Start time at 7:00
Learn more about programming, special guests, etc., and REGISTER!
Reclaiming Childhood Summit Highlights
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