We started out with good intentions. We read more, played more and just generally engaged more to keep our son from the TV for the first 2 years of his life. After that magical 2nd birthday milestone, we started with one 20-minute show a day, snuggling on the couch and watching together.
Then my phone rang. Or an email came in. Or the dog barked. I can’t remember what exactly took place, but something must have happened. Because at some point between then and now, turning on the TV has become a way for us to get things done, or simply have a moment to think. And that one show? Yup, it occasionally turns into a movie. (Don’t judge.)
So when I came across Screen-Free Week after a particularly Sesame Street-fueled morning, I knew without a moment’s hesitation that we were in. Instead of Dora, we’re going to try daydreaming. Jake and the Neverland Pirates? Sorry, we’ll be too busy playing. And as for you, Caillou, well, let’s just say you definitely won’t be missed.
This year, Screen-Free Week will take place from May 4 – May 10. While the premise is pretty simple – shut down all digital entertainment for the week (or even just a day) – here are the rules our family will be following:
- No TV. This not only means no Dora before daycare but also, gulp, no Game of Thrones after the little one is in bed.
- Computers and the Internet are allowed for work. Duh.
- Phones are only to be used as phones. With the exception of work email during work hours (and Google Maps – I get lost, okay?), we’re returning to early 2000s. Sorry, Candy Crush. You’re out.
- Social networks may be visited once per day. This is really just here because I know I’d do it anyway and then feel like a Screen-Free failure.
- iPad use is acceptable for streaming music. Because there’s nothing like a little Bob Marley with breakfast.
I can’t lie. I’m a little scared. But that fear is making me realize how important this break is for our family. Even though I know we actually do a pretty fair job at limiting TV time for our 3-year old, we’ve just generally become too reliant on screens.
Because chance favors the prepared, we’ll be planning some fun activities to have at the ready when the TV is looking like our long lost friend. Think fort building, contact paper suncatchers and marshmallow toothpick sculptures. We might even toss in some Scrabble or furniture rearranging for the adults. The official Screen-Free Week site also has some great ideas and guides on how to replace TV time with creative, hands on activities.
Now It’s Your Turn
So here is where you come in – you knew this was coming, right? – I challenge you to join me in Screen-Free Week 2015. Do it for a day or for the whole week, whatever works best for you and your family. Just make sure to decide your family’s rules (e.g., what “screen-free” looks like for you, how long you’ll do it, if there are any exceptions) before diving in.
Are you up for the challenge? Make your commitment to go screen-free by commenting here or on Facebook, and then let us know how it goes after May 10th. I’ll be recapping our family’s experience – for better or worse – as well!
What are you waiting for? Join me this May 4-10 for Screen-Free Week!
