Unplug and Unwind
How would you feel about spending 24 hours away from your electronic devices?
The
National Day of Unplugging (NDU), observed every first weekend in March, has a message for us: Consider living an entire day, from sundown to sundown on March 3 to 4, without the static of technology.
Computers, smartphones, smart TVs and video games are integral to our lives. A typical American family maintains five devices connecting them to people, media, education, work, shopping and more, all at their fingertips. Our kids are growing up quickly in our high-tech world — a survey of 5,000 kids found that in 2021, 37% of 11-year-olds and 91% of 14-year-olds had a smartphone.
Fortunately, for more than a decade, NDU and its related resources have inspired schools, businesses and individuals to adopt and promote a positive life-tech balance.
Hopefully, you are taking regular respites from your smart devices to get up and move about. On your breaks, head outdoors for some fresh air and exercise. By routinely unplugging, you can find time to do some of your other favorite things.
To maintain safe, appropriate online use, teach kids from a young age about technology and positive online behavior. You may find it hard to stay on top of all the apps and sites your children may use. To keep up with the changing tech landscape, visit
saferinternetday.org.
