WHEREAS, over the past decade, rates of anxiety, depression, and self-harm among children and adolescents have risen sharply;WHEREAS, research links the deterioration in mental health among youth to the decline of free play, face-to-face interaction, and outdoor activity;WHEREAS, children today spend significantly more time using screens, including both personal and school issued devices, than any previous generation;WHEREAS, physical activity, unstructured outdoor play, and real-world social interaction build resilience, confidence, and mental health in children;WHEREAS, the expansion of digital learning tools has produced both benefits and unintended harms, including distraction, overreliance on virtual instruction, and decreased engagement;WHEREAS, constant screen exposure in school settings can displace essential childhood experiences such as tactile learning, group collaboration, and time spent in nature; andWHEREAS, schools serve a vital role in shaping childhood culture and development:NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Legislature of the state of Utah encourages public schools to increase the amount of time dedicated to physical education, outdoor recess, and unstructured free play, recognizing their essential role in healthy childhood development.BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature recommends schools reduce excessive reliance on screens and digital platforms during the school day, particularly for younger students, and restore balanced use of textbooks, printed materials, and hands-on learning.BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature urges school leaders, parents, and policymakers to work together to promote environments rooted in movement and real-world connection and monitor the impact of school practices on student mental health.BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be prepared and submitted to the State Board of Education, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Utah Parent Teacher Association, and each local education agency in the state.