Curriculum Corner
Holiday Digital Detox
As we head into the school holidays, many families look forward to extra family time, and a well-deserved break from routines. It can also be a great opportunity to reflect on our children's screen time habits and consider a "digital detox”.
Technology plays an important role in our lives and can be a wonderful tool for learning and connection. But when screens begin to replace physical activity, face-to-face interactions, outdoor play, and rest, it can impact children's (and our!) wellbeing. Excessive recreational screen time has been linked to difficulties with sleep, concentration, emotional regulation, and physical health.
The school holidays provide the perfect chance to create healthy balance. A digital detox does not mean eliminating screens altogether. Instead it is about being intentional and ensuring that technology does not dominate the day. Children often thrive when they have opportunities to explore, imagine, move, and connect with others. Unstructured play helps develop creativity, problem-solving skills, resilience, and social confidence, while time outdoors supports both physical and mental wellbeing.
Tips for Managing Screen Time During the Holidays
Create screen-free zones such as the dinner table, bedrooms, or family outings.
Set clear expectations by agreeing on daily screen time limits before the holidays begin. Have this visible for all members of the family/household.
Encourage outdoor play with trips to local parks, bike rides, nature walks, or backyard games.
Offer alternatives such as reading, crafts, puzzles, board games, cooking, or building projects.
Model healthy habits by putting your own devices away and being fully present with your children.
Use screens purposefully by choosing educational, creative, or family-friendly content rather than endless scrolling.
Avoid screens before bedtime to help children maintain healthy sleep routines.
A digital detox does not have to be all or nothing. Even small changes can make a big difference. By creating opportunities for our children to connect, create, explore, and play, we can help develop healthy habits that support wellbeing long after the holidays have ended.
A little less screen time and a little more time connecting, creating, and exploring may be just what everyone needs to return refreshed, recharged, and ready for a wonderful new term.