I’ve seen a lot of content lately (i.e. commercials, videos, ads, etc) about how we, as a society, seem to be glued to our devices 24/7. Plugged in to social media, but unplugged from those around us. It’s easy to spot – just take a minute and look around. I never realized how disconnected we all are from each other because I’m usually disconnected, too.
Standing in line at the coffee shop….every single person on their phone. In the waiting room at the pediatrician, every last parent (and some kids, too) scrolling on their device. At the playground, pushing a child on a swing with one hand and glancing at the phone with the other.
We’re all busy and I’m not judging, because all of those things above… I’m guilty of, too. When I looked at my family’s usage, I saw that precious time we could be spending with our kids, we were often glancing at our phones. Agreeing to be a part of the The Tech TimeoutTM challenge seemed like a great idea.
The Tech TimeoutTM challenge started by ForestersTM encourages families to take a daily break from technology. Participating families are encouraged to disconnect from all things electronic with the goal of helping spouses, parents and children build stronger bonds, communicate more personally and get more involved in each other’s lives.
It’s easier to do than you might think. Just take ONE HOUR a day and agree to spend it without technology. No phones, tablets, readers, etc. My husband was on board and we recently completed the challenge. The biggest thing we saw was how much more engaged that time with our kids was and how happy our kids were to have our undivided attention. It wasn’t broken apart by quick emails, tweets or checking out what someone else posted on Facebook. It was pure time with our kids and we felt good about it.
Want to take the challenge?
Taking the pledge? Here are some ideas for what you can do as a family during the TechTimeout:
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Very very smart thing to do. And good for every relationship, each and every day. We forget what intimacy is like when we are so used to gizmos and gadgets being an inseparable part of our lives. It’s nice to recapture it, be it with your children or your spouse!