Unplugging Parenthood

With the growing movement to give our children an “Unplugged Childhood,” I think now is as good a time as any to try a bit of unplugged parenting!

Screens have become seriously addictive! Our phones and devices are now our constant companions, but they can really mess with our relationships and daily routines. Every swipe and notification keeps us hooked, and that affects both us and our kids.

We’ve all seen it (and probably all been it!)—parents glued to their screens at the park or during meals. It’s easy to get sucked in, but this addiction seriously affects our ability to be present and engaged with our kids (and our partners too). When they see us more interested in our screens than in them, it can impact their wellbeing and how they connect with others, making them feel like they’re not a priority.

Admitting we might be hooked on our devices is the first step towards change. We all know it’s a problem, but we still find it hard to break free from the constant pull of screens. If you are willing to make some intentional changes, there are practical ways to take back control and set a better example for our families. At the end of the day, you get to control your technology use, not the other way around.

4 quick tips to help you “unplug”

1. Set boundaries: No screens during meals or when you’re hanging out together. It’s a simple way to encourage real conversations and bonding time. Try to not use your phone for the first and last 15 minutes of the day.
2. Keep tech out of your bedroom: A no-brainer.
3. Turn of notifications: Less buzzing means less temptation to check your phone constantly.
4. Fight fire with fire (or tech with tech): Make the most of your screen time settings, or use apps designed to help (such as the Freedom App, the Forest App, or the One Sec app). Switch your screen display to grayscale.

Kids learn from watching us. When they see us putting down our phones and paying attention to them, it shows them what’s important. Get outdoors, pick up a hobby that doesn’t involve a screen, or read a book! By reducing your own screen time, you set a powerful example for your children of the joy that comes with “being where your feet are.”

We need to disconnect to reconnect.

Reducing screen time isn’t just about limiting tech—it’s about making room for real connections. By being present with our kids, we’re teaching them how to build strong relationships and navigate the digital world wisely.

With a little self-awareness, self-regulation, and discipline, the suggestions I’ve given above will make a difference.

It’s not always easy to ditch the screens, but where we put our attention is the most important decision we make every day! It determines the effectiveness of our mornings. It impacts our productivity during the day. It degrades or elevates our relationships.

So, focus your attention on what matters most right now.