Screen-free week was earlier this month. However, that does not mean it’s too late to participate. Put down those cell phones and tablets and turn off the computers and gaming consoles now so you can enjoy some screen-free time. I know now might be a difficult time to do this. Especially with the stay-at-home order and so many things still shut down. But, that does not mean you cannot attempt to go screen free for a few hours a day.
To help you put down your screens, we have come up with a list of five things you can do that do not involve a cell phone, computer, gaming system or anything to do with technology.
Read
Pull out an old favorite or get a new one. No matter what your reading preferences are, use this time to read a book - cover to cover. This is also a good time to do story time with the family. Pick a book everyone will love and set aside a little bit of time each day to read it.
Garden
Get outside for some fresh air and work in your garden. Don’t have a garden yet? Start one. It is a great way to spend time with the kids, teaching them about the different plants and giving them a sense of responsibility watching over the garden.
Handwritten letters
Take an afternoon and hand write some letters to grandparents, aunts, uncles and other family members you are currently not able to visit. This is a fun activity and helps kids with their writing skills. Plus, grandparents love receiving handwritten letters in the mail.
Bike Ride
Get out of the house and go on a bike ride. Depending upon where you live, you can ride around the block, explore your neighborhood or find a biking path nearby. If you don’t own a bike, go for a hike instead.
Journaling
Take time away from your electronics and start a journal. This is a great activity for everyone in the family and a good tool for helping improve your child’s writing skills. This is something you could try to make a habit. Get everyone in the family to put down their electronics for 15-30 minutes a day and do some journaling.
Screen free week annually is the first week of May. However, these tips can help you no matter what day of the year it is. If you are looking to spend time with the family and get the kids and spouses to put down their phones, these are the perfect activities.
