Digital Detox: Family Fun Without Screens
A strong family bond is valuable beyond measure. It provides a sense of belonging, allows for a safe space to share emotions, and creates a reliable support system. The key to creating a strong family bond is to spend quality time together—which can be hard when everyone is glued to a device! Plan for some fun bonding time for your family by declaring a digital detox. Here’s how:
- Hold a family meeting. Gather your loved ones to talk about a proposed digital detox, framing the break as an experiment rather than a punishment. Talk about the rules for the day (for example, exceptions for using a phone to take important calls or get directions). Get everyone’s buy-in and make a promise to hold each other accountable.
- Set the stage. Before the digital detox, plan for the inevitable downtime that will occur at home. Pull out puzzles, board games, books, crafts, and other items that can provide family fun without the use of screens. Being prepared is key!
- Go on an adventure. Now the fun part! Choose one or two activities outside the house, such as a bike ride, a hike, or a trip to the zoo, that will be enjoyable for all family members. If you can, try an experience that’s new for everyone.
- Cook without the internet. These days, you can find a recipe for whatever food you’re craving with the click of a button. Instead of relying on digital recipes, break out your cookbooks, call grandma for a family recipe, or try your hand at making up your own dish. Meals are a lot more fun to cook and eat when they have a story behind them.
- Reflect. After your digital detox ends, encourage each family member to reflect on the day. Ask them what they liked best and what they’d like to do again. Take time to also acknowledge the tough parts when it was second nature to turn to a screen. Talk about what each person did instead and use those strategies moving forward.
