How to start tech-free family days
Simple strategies to help families ease into tech-free days from a cognitive specialist.
As a parent in the digital age, I find myself caught between two worlds: savoring the moments of my children’s lives and capturing those moments through the lens of my camera. Photography has become an integral part of my parenting journey—a way to preserve the joy, wonder and beauty of our everyday lives. My kids often nudge me to stay in the moment, and while I cherish their reminders, I also defend my habit of documenting our memories.
That said, even parents need the occasional nudge to set their devices aside and be fully present. The idea of stepping away from technology can feel overwhelming at first, but easing into converting some screen time into tech-free family time can be a transformative and deeply rewarding experience.
Half-tech Tuesdays: Swap one hour of screen time for family time
On school days, our family practices “half-tech Tuesdays,” which means we start our family time a little earlier. We swap our regular screen time for family time, and we cook together, play board games or do crafts. For example, my daughter researches baking recipes, while my son plans simple meals for us. We make it a collaborative and fun family experience.
For instance:
Regular screen-time routine
- Homework: 2:30 – 3:30 PM
- Tech time: 3:30 – 5:30 PM
- Family time: Starts at 7 PM
- Bedtime: 9 PM
Half-tech Tuesdays
- Homework: 2:30 – 3:30 PM
- Tech time: 3:30 – 4:30 PM
- Family time: Starts at 6 PM
- Bedtime: 9 PM
No-tech Thursdays: Swap screen time for learning a new skill together
Creating a dedicated no-tech day can encourage consistency and help your family think of tech-free time as a positive habit rather than a restriction. We use the catchy phrase “no-tech Thursdays” to make it memorable.
On Thursdays, instead of screen time, we focus on learning new skills. For example, my son taught me how to ride a hoverboard, and my daughter helped me understand trending Gen Alpha slang—it’s a fun way to bond and share knowledge. Modeling this behavior for your kids is essential; they’ll follow your lead when you actively participate.
For instance:
Regular screen-time routine
- Homework: 2:30 – 3:30 PM
- Tech time: 3:30 – 5:30 PM
- Family time: 7 PM
- Bedtime: 9 PM
No-tech Thursdays
- Homework: 2:30 – 3:30 PM
- No tech after homework
- Family time: 7 PM
- Bedtime: 9 PM
Ready to try one—or both? Talk to your family first for best results
For tech-free routines to work, everyone—including adults—needs to be on board. Start by discussing the benefits of tech-free time and setting goals together. Let your kids contribute ideas for activities to make them feel included and engaged.
Tips for family participation:
- Collaborate on a plan. Decide together which days or activities will be tech-free. For example, family meals or outdoor outings are great starting points.
- Celebrate small wins. At the end of each week, reflect on the positive moments from tech-free times and adjust plans as needed.
By starting small, setting realistic expectations about screen time and involving your whole family, you can turn tech-free days into enjoyable and rewarding traditions. With time, these moments will become cherished memories (and maybe evolve into a screen-free Saturday?) that remind you of the value of being fully present with one another.
Get insights—and talk together—about your child’s digital life with Verizon Family.
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Start a tech-free family day
- Half-tech Tuesdays: Dedicate time for family activities like cooking or crafts, reducing screen time and fostering collaboration.
- No-tech Thursdays: Establish a consistent tech-free day to learn new skills together.
- Collaborate on a plan: Involve the whole family in creating tech-free routines, such as family meals or outdoor activities, to make it fun and inclusive.
- Celebrate small wins: Reflect on positive moments from tech-free times each week, adjusting plans as needed to reinforce the benefits.
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