Tech-Free Time

Walking down the street in any city or town in America, it’s almost impossible not to run into someone on their phone, tablet or watch. As a society, we’ve become dependent on these devices for information, communication and entertainment. As adults, we can’t seem to get away from them. So for our children and teens, how do we expect them to take a break from the screens and why is it important?

Why screen-free time is important

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, “Risks (from too much screen time) include negative health effects on weight and sleep; exposure to inaccurate, inappropriate, or unsafe content and contacts; and compromised privacy and confidentiality.” As adults, we see evidence of these risks on a daily basis when it comes to children and teens in our lives. So, how do we model and promote screen-free time?

Put the screen away at mealtimes

Our children and teens lead busy lives, as do we, and family meals are a great opportunity to focus on face-to-face interactions, practice reading facial expressions and strengthen the bonds that we have with each other. Eye contact and the subtle body language that comes with being ever present builds trust between you and your children. A large downside to the electronic form of communication is that the words that are used can be misinterpreted and the emotion, both positive and negative behind a statement, can be lost.

Be active together

Get your children and teens up and moving! Plan walks after dinner in your neighborhood. These extended times together go a long way to encourage open and honest communication in addition to the numerous health benefits of a more active lifestyle. Find a sport that your child likes to play and play with them at the local park in your neighborhood. This is a great way to help build self-esteem, both for yourself and your child as they learn new skills and teach you something new as well.

Invite friends over

So imagine not only getting your teen off of their electronic device, but encouraging this behavior by making your home open and welcoming to their friends. While the phone and tablets may still come out, now there are more opportunities for peer interaction where reading facial cues is possible. They can be playing the latest game, but in the same room can be having the conversations that lead to problem-solving to win.

By getting children and teens of all ages to connect, they can develop stronger interpersonal bonds that will serve them well as they move through life on a successful path to adulthood. And imagine the bonds we can create with them, supporting them through adolescence and model the good choices we wish for them to make.

By // Pamela Morris, MSEd

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