Could you go screen-free for a week? Could your family unplug for seven days?
In today’s society this may not be a realistic feat, nor a beneficial one, but it is certainly something to consider. In 1994, the Center for Screen-Time Awareness (CSTA) initiated a National Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood. More than 20 years ago researchers were keen on the dangers of excessive screen time. Today, “screens” have been embedded into our society so much so that it may be detrimental to say good bye to screens for a whole week. The “screen” environment makes our lives more efficient, interactive and can improve communication. Nevertheless, the research remains that when we turn off screens, we “turn on life.” Therefore, the choice is yours; are you all-in to pursue a digital detox for seven days? Or, are screens (smart phones, tablets, computers, TV, etc.) so critical to livelihood that perhaps only turning off recreational screens for a week is suitable? Either way, the challenge is on.
In the month of May, groups nationwide will encourage millions to turn off their televisions, tablets and gaming systems and go Screen-Free for 1 Week. This impetus will foster a digital respite and encourage entertainment found in reading, playing, daydreaming, exploring the outdoors and spending quality time with family and friends. On average, preschool children spend four-plus hours each day consuming media from screens and this only escalates as we age. Older children spend seven or more hours daily and adults consume an average of 10 hours of screen time daily, albeit it is not all recreational usage. There’s no doubt that there is a place for screens in our lives but too much of a good thing can certainly be a bad thing.
Excessive screen time is linked to a number of learning and health problems for children and adults, including obesity, difficulties with attention and focus, sleep disturbances, behavior problems and poor performance at school. The health risks have become so great that the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) issued a statement in 2016 with screen time rules, by age:
- Less than 18 months of age: No screen time
- Children 2 to 5 years: Less than one hour daily
- Children 6 years to adulthood: Less than two hours daily
Ideal forms of media for children include those that are educational and limit commercials. Commercials have found to over-stimulate young children, and they often lack the cognitive skills to truly understand the messaging.
So, what can you, and your family, do with the extra 14-50 hours each week? The possibilities are endless!
- Go on a family walk, hike or bike ride.
- Put a puzzle together.
- Play a board game or charades.
- Turn on music and have a dance party.
- Read a book or look at a family photo album.
- Go to a local park.
- Go to the library.
- Explore free community events.
- Work through homework together.
- Write a story as a family.
- Tackle that to-do list.
After screen-free week has come and gone, keep the habit going! Honor the time with friends and family as well as your health, and consume media just like those sweet treats – in moderation.
