With 2015 at hand, why not pick a digital resolution for your family? Now remember, if you overwhelm yourself with too many new habits all at once, you know what will happen.
Nothing, absolutely nothing.
You’ll give up on Day 3.
So I would suggest choosing just one thing that resonates with you from this list (or make a different resolution altogether but make it simple, measurable, and doable).
5 Digital New Year’s Resolutions for Your Family:
We will not text, tweet, or play video games at mealtime – Set aside at least 4 meals a week where you sit down as a family for conversation and fun, no screens allowed.
We will turn off screens one hour before bedtime – Staring at a bright screen before bedtime keeps kids awake, so turn off electronic devices one hour before bedtime to avoid stimulating adrenaline and preventing sleep.
We will set and keep daily time limits on screen time – The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 2 hours or less of screen time for your child age 2-18. Your limit may be higher, but at least set a limit or else all free time tends to go to screens.
We will enforce consequences when rules are broken – What battles do you anticipate with screen time? Be clear about consequences (make them fair) and consistent about enforcement.
We will not criticize or yell at our family members online or by texting – Don’t use social media as a megaphone to trash your family member. Instead learn to communicate face to face when there’s a problem. Keep your texts and posts positive and complimentary.
Which will you choose? Any digital resolutions to add to the list?
For more support in the New Year, get Growing Up Social: Raising Relational Kids in a Screen-Driven World.
