Jennifer Siebel Newsom Unveils Family Guide for Better Tech Balance
In a compelling discussion with social psychologist and acclaimed author Jonathan Haidt, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom introduced a valuable resource aimed at helping families disconnect from technology, engage in play, and thrive together.
Today, Jennifer Siebel Newsom launched her Movement & Outdoor Activity Family Guide, an innovative resource in the Tech/Life Balance series managed by her nonprofit organization, the California Partners Project. This guide is designed to equip caregivers with practical tools to find balance in screen time and integrate movement and outdoor activities into their daily routines.
"This guide embodies my core beliefs—stepping away from screens, enjoying the great outdoors, and reconnecting with loved ones," expressed Jennifer Siebel Newsom. "I want parents to feel empowered to establish boundaries around device usage and to discover simple strategies that facilitate this process. The guide serves as a toolkit to help families communicate openly about screen time while setting intentional goals together."
Launched in coordination with a statewide initiative aimed at promoting movement and mindfulness, the guide debuted during a meaningful conversation between Siebel Newsom and Jonathan Haidt at the Milken Institute Global Conference. Their chat not only highlighted Haidt's influential work, The Anxious Generation, but also addressed pressing issues concerning children's mental health, emphasizing the need for youth to flourish both online and offline.
"Families face numerous powerful influences that are reshaping childhood as we know it," commented Jonathan Haidt, who is advocating for a cultural shift away from technology dependence toward fostering childhood autonomy and resilience through unstructured play. He stated, "The significance of this guide lies in its practical strategies that help families resist the pervasive overindulgence in technology without overwhelming parents with extra demands." Haidt also co-founded Let Grow, an organization dedicated to enhancing children's independence and resilience.
The Movement & Outdoor Activity Guide, informed by expert research and insights from California caregivers, includes:
- Simple, accessible strategies for active play
- Quick, practical ideas that fit into family life
- Advice on technology that enhances—not replaces—real-world connections
- Conversation starters for families to align on shared goals and values
This bilingual guide is part of the larger Tech/Life Balance series, which explores the relationship between youth mental health and technology, focusing on four essential areas: social-emotional health, physical movement and outdoor activities, nutrition, and sleep.
Aligned with the California for ALL Kids initiative, this project reflects a unified commitment to enhancing children's mental and physical health, fostering family connections, and creating supportive environments where every child can thrive. The Movement & Outdoor Activity Guide is available for download to provide families with essential resources for healthier lifestyles.
About the California Partners Project: Co-founded by California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom and Olivia Morgan, the California Partners Project is dedicated to advancing gender equity across the state and promoting the mental, behavioral, and physical well-being of California's children. The organization works closely with communities to support initiatives that benefit families throughout California.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Movement & Outdoor Activity Family Guide?
The Family Guide aims to help families balance screen time and promote outdoor activities, enriching their connections with each other.
Who is Jennifer Siebel Newsom?
Jennifer Siebel Newsom is the California First Partner and a dedicated advocate for women's and children's health and well-being.
What topics does the Tech/Life Balance series cover?
The series discusses social-emotional health, nutrition, sleep, and physical activity, addressing technology's impact on youth mental health.
How can families access the Movement & Outdoor Activity Guide?
The guide is available for download from the California Partners Project's official website.
Who collaborated with Jennifer Siebel Newsom on this initiative?
Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist and author, played a pivotal role in promoting the guide and discussing its relevance during the Milken Institute Global Conference.
