Kramer-Unplug & lPay

Kramer Takes Action to Create a Less Anxious Generation

Oxford, Ohio – On Wednesday, May 7, Kramer Elementary School brought families together in a joyful, screen-free celebration with its first-ever Unplug and Play! event. Inspired by the groundbreaking research in The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt, Kramer’s "Unplug and Play" committee, in partnership with the Kramer PTG, launched the event to encourage real-world play and face to face connection.

Held from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. on the school’s playground, the evening invited families to step away from screens and rediscover the power of unstructured play. The response was overwhelmingly positive: over 50 families and 88 children attended, filling the playground with laughter, energy, and connection.

Children spent the evening enjoying classic activities like cornhole, Gaga Pit games, sidewalk chalk art, bubbles, ball games, playground fun, and more. Parents relaxed in lawn chairs, socialized with staff and each other, and picked up a goodie bag offering unplugged local summer activities for children and families.

The playground buzzed with excitement—and the children made it clear they were loving every minute:

“It helped me sleep because I wore myself out with the fun activities,” said one fifth grader.

Another fifth grader added, “It was fun to get out of the house!”
“I liked the chalk drawing and everything. It was fun playing with my friends,” a fourth grader commented.
“It was good! I really like the chalk and bubbles,” said a first grader..

“We created this event to give families a glimpse into what healthier, happier childhoods can look like,” said a member of the Kramer Unplug and Play committee. “We’re not anti-technology—we’re pro-childhood.”

The event also included a giveaway of games to twelve lucky families, helping them continue the unplugged fun at home.

More than just a one-time event, Unplug and Play! marks the beginning of a larger movement at Kramer Elementary. Inspired by Haidt’s research on the impact of technology on youth mental health, the school is planning future programming that will provide hands-on, real-world experiences for students and continued support for families navigating the digital age.

“We’re committed to helping our kids grow up with confidence, curiosity, and community,” said Kramer staff. “This is just the start.”

Let’s unplug and rediscover the joy of play—together.