Imagine celebrating the moments of a fun summer celebration - without your smartphone. Now, I am not suggesting you miss the great photo ops - by all means, take time to capture the memories to share later. The challenge arises when we disengage from the present moment to update our social media status. A quick check often leads to several minutes. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, seventy-five percent of teens ages 13 - 17 have at least one active social media profile and spend an average of almost nine hours a day online - and that does not include time used for homework. Yikes!

Teenagers need support and boundaries to help develop skills to manage their social media use. Discuss the positive aspects of using social media and the potential risks. Additionally, establishing some healthy boundaries as a family can be a way to keep everyone accountable for their time connected to their phones.

This year, declare independence from your smartphone, computers, and other screens! After the Fourth of July celebrations, declare independence from your smartphone and prioritize connecting with loved ones and embracing the present moment without distractions and take it into an Unplugged Second Half of Summer. Here is a glimpse of what that could look like:

1. Device-Free Mornings: Start the day by powering down your electronic devices. Resist the urge to check social media or emails. Instead, focus on being fully present and engaging in activities that set a relaxed and joyful tone for the day.

2. Outdoor Activities: Embrace the spirit of summer by spending time outdoors. Gather with family and friends for a fun-filled day of outdoor activities. Play classic games like frisbee, tag, or sack races. Set up a friendly neighborhood sports tournament or organize a water balloon fight. Enjoy the freedom of movement and laughter.

3. Community Celebrations: Attend local community celebrations, parades, or fireworks displays. These events offer an opportunity to connect with your community, celebrate shared values, and converse with neighbors and friends. Leave your devices at home to fully immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.

4. Meaningful Conversations: Take advantage of the unplugged environment to engage in meaningful conversations with loved ones. Share stories, memories, and reflections related to Independence Day. Discuss the significance of freedom, patriotism, and the journey of your nation. Deepen your understanding of each other's perspectives and strengthen your bonds.

5. Creative Activities: Engage in creative activities that celebrate the spirit of the season. Set up an arts and crafts station where everyone can make patriotic-themed decorations or create summer-inspired artwork. Encourage storytelling or poem recitations centered around themes of freedom and independence.

6. Outdoor Cooking and Picnics: Plan a delicious and device-free picnic or barbecue.

Whatever you do - connect with friends and family and have a safe and happy summer.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Susan Sloop is a 4-H Youth Development Specialist in Health and Wellness. She provides leadership to the 4-H youth development program focusing on 4-H clubs, 4-H groups, and youth education initiatives. Susan delivers researched based educational programs to youth and adult audiences geared towards healthy lifestyles, social-emotional learning, positive youth development, and workforce preparation.   

Sources:

• Social Media and Teens. Social Media and Teens. (2018). https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/Social-Media-and-Teens
• Forstmann, D. (2019, March 13). 91 things to do without your phone. Medium. https://medium.com/@goboldfish/91-things-to-do-without-your-phone-ed638755629c
• 8 quick tips for curbing your family's screen time. FamilyEducation. (2017, February 10). https://www.familyeducation.com/entertainment-activities/online/8-quick-tips-curbing-your-familys-screen-time