We believe that minimal use of cell phones, tablets and laptops is central to student progress. Wolfeboro's academic program is a pen and paper program and, as a result, our students experience great academic growth. Studies increasingly confirm that substantial screen time can limit comprehension and that easy access to screens compromises cognitive growth. Our digital policy is based on the power of “unplugging.” It is one of the core features that sets Wolfeboro apart from other summer academic programs.

Academic Benefit

Screen time can easily inhibit academic and social progress for obvious reasons. Academic focus is best nurtured with pencil and paper ... with markedly few exceptions. This includes progress in academic writing. Planning and executive function skills also benefit from the careful process required by paper and pencil. 

Although students must eventually learn how to overcome these obstacles, Wolfeboro's  five-week break from constant screen use allows us to accelerate the growth of skills and confidence. Meaningful progress is simply that much more without digital distraction. 

Of course, your son or daughter may initially resist the idea of limited cell phone use. Be assured that any anxiety about this is 100% anticipation. It only takes five minutes for most students to start enjoying a vibrant and robust social life on campus. It’s not as difficult as you might think, in fact, it is easy. Contact us to learn how to have the “power of unplugging” conversation with your child.

Staying Connected at Wolfeboro

With parent permission, students will have their cell phones for about 30 minutes per day most every day. 

In addition, land-line telephones also provide daily opportunities for students to call home and emails sent to our office are printed and delivered to students daily. 

Read the Research

Not convinced? See for yourself. Explore the science behind the "power of unplugging" with our updated collection of articles from leading researchers and news outlets.