The National Day of Unplugging has new meaning since the beginning of COVID.
Kids are using technology more than ever before. Can they turn it off?
Can you?
National Day of Unplugging is an awareness campaign promoting a 24-hour respite from technology. It is annually observed on the first weekend in March.
The organization behind National Day of Unplugging, Unplug Collaborative, says more than 135,000 people have participated in events hosted by over 1,000 schools, religious institutions, and businesses worldwide over the last 13 years.
The 2024 challenge takes place on March 1st.
Want to take part ... but not sure how to get your family to fill those hours without technology?
Check out our 10 ideas to go screen-free as a family |
1. Get outside
Take a hike, visit a park, or hit the slopes. Get outside and enjoy nature together!
 Kichigin via Canva |
2. Play
This sounds simple enough, but it's surprising how little time many children have most days for open play. Let your children run wild with imagination by giving them free hours to just PLAY! Or maybe suggest one of these Outdoor Ideas.
3. Host a friendly competition
Gather the family for a board game bonanza! Break out the family favorites or introduce a new game or two. Take a look at our Favorite Board Games for great ideas.
 Getty Images Signature via Canva |
4. Build
Build with cardboard boxes, LEGOs, blocks, toothpicks, or whatever else you can think of! Hold a family-building competition or work together to create an epic project.
5. Read
Crack open those books and cuddle up together on the couch for a reading marathon. Or start a book together as a family! Better yet ...start a Family Book Club.
 Getty Images via Canva |
6. Encourage sensory play
This is perfect for either indoor or outdoor play with Littles! We love this winter-themed sensory bin.
7. Clean
It's never too early to begin spring cleaning! This is a great time of year to declutter, sort, and donate. Your kiddos can definitely help with the process and feel great donating some unwanted items to those in need! Read: Don't Stress! Make Spring Cleaning a Breeze! and 80 Decluttering Ideas and 8 Ways Kids Can Help With Chores
 Kzenon via Canva |
8. Discover a new hobby together
From knitting to playing an instrument, and everything in between — what have you always wanted to learn, but haven't? Now is the time! Older kids might want to participate as well — a great way to connect with your kids as you learn together.
 Denis Kuvaev via Canva |
9. Create art
Consider not giving your child a craft or end goal — just let them create! This is called process art, which is open-ended art making. The goal is to give the child the freedom to self-direct, make choices, and give them the freedom to discover and create without expectation. With process art, the end product is always unique — and likely not what you expect! The goal is the creation of the work, not the outcome. Check out our Craft Ideas for inspiration.
10. Go on a mini adventure around town
Explore! Go on a mural hunt. Visit a museum you haven't been to before, or revisit a favorite. Visit our calendar for a list of family-friendly events happening our our Spring Break Guide
Who knows? Maybe you and your kids will have so much fun going screen-free that you might decide to make it a regular event for your family. Happy unplugging!
Be sure to tell local businesses and events you found them
on Macaroni Kid Greater Woodbridge ...
and make sure to tell all your friends!
 |  |  |  |  |
