Monday, March 13, 2023

National Day of Unplugging - Alternative Activities



National Day of Unplugging. is a holiday that consists of a 24 hour period from sundown to sundown, to unplug, unwind, relax and do things other than using today’s technology, electronics, and social media.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no screen time for children under 2 and less than 2 hours per day for older children. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents create an electronic-media-free environment in children’s bedrooms.
 
The Benefits of Reduced Screen Time

• Reducing screen time can help prevent childhood obesity.

• Children who spend less time watching television in the early years tend to do better in schoolhave a healthier diet, and are more physically active.

Hazards of Too Much Screen Time

•Adolescents with a television in their bedroom spend more time watching TV and report less physical activity, less healthy dietary habits, worse school performance, and fewer family meals.

• Children with a television in their bedroom are more likely to be overweight.

Alternative Activities During National Day of Unplugging
  • Prepare a family meal together.
  • Take a walk in the park.
  • Join a family fitness group.
  • Plant a vegetable garden or grow a fruit tree. 
  • Visit the zoo.
  • Plan a picnic or barbecue.
  • Go to a museum.
  • Take a nature hike.
  • Organize a scavenger hunt.
  • Learn yoga.
  • Go dancing.
  • Volunteer for a community or charitable organization