Reducing the Noise

It is no secret that sometimes social media, or media in general, can have a pernicious effect on one’s well being. Technology has even been developed to track our screen time for us so that we may be held accountable and reduce time spent in this way. Winter is particularly difficult for many who are inside for longer periods. Personally I recognize the harmful effects of screen time on my own children. If left to their own devices, they will not self-regulate and spend endless, mindless hours gaming or going down some sort of YouTube rabbit hole. After doing this, they find themselves in a sour mood and are less likely to act lovingly toward one another. I recognize growing evermore disenchanted with what I refer to as twaddle and noise. I suspect many can relate. 

Getting out in nature is finally feeling more appealing now that spring has arrived. Moments after we begin a hike or even go into the backyard, the children become better versions of themselves. They rediscover how to be creative and how to play with each other. It’s amazing how quickly they shift from displaying the negative effects of screen time to being more self-aware and considerate of others. 

I am challenging my family this season to reduce the noise. I have been declaring certain days as “Screen Free Days” and on other days I put strict limits on time when screens are allowed. The effects are incredibly good. Activities like learning to play instruments, cook, fold laundry and organize Marie Kondo style, play outside, write letters, read and make beautiful art are on the agenda. I am noticing a huge lift in household morale and in the ease of parenting.