Tips for Going Screen-Free
Ready to pull the plug at your house? Here are six expert tips for making a screen-free week both successful and fun.Present it as a challenge. "Most kids like the chance to prove they can do something that's not easy," says Barbara Brock, who has organized screen-free months in several Washington public schools. Mark the achievement with dollar-store medals or a family outing.
Choose a week of good weather and health. According to Brock, playing outside is one of the most popular alternatives to screen time, making summer a good time to turn off the technology.
Try a No-Tube Tuesday. Nervous about going cold turkey? Try it just one day a week. "If you call it something fun like Family Game Night, kids will be a lot more receptive," says Sarah Davies of unplugyourkids.com.
Keep screens out of sight. To avoid temptation, stash the computer in a closet, make an "out of order" sign for your TV, and hide the remote.
Join with others. Taking the challenge with friends provides "positive peer pressure," says Davies. The Center for Screen-time Awareness has declared September 19 to 25 a national Turnoff Week. Ask your local school or library if they have any events planned.
Have a list of activities handy. For inspiration, check out Bobbi Conner's book, Unplugged Play: No Batteries. No Plugs. Pure Fun. Or visit the websites below for ideas — then turn your computer off!
unplugyourkids.com insteadoftv.com screentime.org
