Youth Tech Timeouts Suggestions
This list provides insightful tips for integrating tech timeouts into daily life, encouraging balanced screen use with activities that foster offline hobbies, outdoor adventures, and meaningful face-to-face interactions for a healthier lifestyle.
Indigenous
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Mental
Being online seems to be available in almost everything that we do. Here are 5 tips for youth to incorporate tech timeout into their lives to create balance.
- Schedule Screen-Free Time
Allocate specific periods each day for tech-free activities. Whether it's during meals, before bed, or during designated study breaks, having structured screen-free time helps create boundaries and promotes healthier tech habits.
- Engage in Offline Hobbies
Encourage youth to discover or rediscover offline hobbies and activities that they enjoy. Whether it's reading, drawing, playing a musical instrument, or outdoor sports, having alternative activities readily available can make it easier to disconnect from screens.
- Create a Tech-Free Zone
Designate certain areas in the home, such as bedrooms or dining areas, as tech-free zones. This helps promote better sleep hygiene and encourages more meaningful interactions with family and friends during meals or downtime.
- Set Boundaries with Devices
Establish clear guidelines for device usage, such as limiting screen time, avoiding screens at least an hour before bedtime, and practicing digital mindfulness during social interactions. Encourage youth to be mindful of their screen habits and to prioritize real-life connections over virtual ones.
- Plan Outdoor Adventures on the Land
Encourage youth to spend time outdoors on the land and away from screens by planning outdoor adventures and activities. Whether it's hiking, biking, picnicking, or simply taking a walk-in nature, spending time outdoors can rejuvenate the mind and body while reducing reliance on technology. People need land, and the land needs us. It creates a space to learn and serve as a foundation for the rest of their lives and generations to come.
While online tech certainly has its benefits, particularly in terms of convenience and accessibility, nothing quite compares to the richness and depth of connecting with loved ones in person. Prioritizing face-to-face interactions can lead to stronger, more fulfilling relationships and a greater sense of belonging and connection.
We hope that this give you as an individual or if you have youth in your family, that this helps create conversation together and some ideas of what can be done outside of technology.
