You know we love partying and we know that no one likes a party where everyone is glued to their cellphones. Family dinners are a party too and in this digital age, they are more important than ever as they provide a precious opportunity for loved ones to connect and bond. But the presence of TVs and cell phones at the dinner table can act as barriers to communication, diminishing the quality of time spent together. Here’s how you can minimize TV and screens during mealtime for children to foster stronger family ties and create memorable experiences.
First and foremost, stress the importance of conversation during dinner. Explain to your family members that talking can help strengthen family bonds and provide a space for everyone to share what’s happening in their daily lives at home, school, gym, or work. Encourage open-ended questions and active listening to ensure that your children feel heard and valued.
Instead of being strict and diving headfirst into banning screens at every meal, first start by introducing small changes. You can begin by having a casual family meeting to discuss the issue openly. Express your concerns about the excessive use of screens during mealtime and propose the idea of having device-free dinners at least once a week.
After that choose a specific night each week for device-free dinners and make it special. Plan activities or games to enjoy together after the meal to celebrate the quality time spent as a family. By creating a fun atmosphere, you’ll make the transition to screen-free dinners more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Establish clear guidelines about screen time and explain the reasons behind these rules to your children. Discuss any exceptions to the rule, such as using a screen to calm a restless child at a restaurant or during a special event.
However, it’s essential to lead by example. If you’re asking your children to minimize screen time during dinner, make sure to practice what you preach and follow the rules you made. Put away your own phone and focus on engaging with your family members without any distractions.
Changing screen time habits may not happen overnight, but with patience and consistency, you can create a more meaningful and connected family mealtime experience. Remember, the goal is not to eliminate screens but to prioritize genuine human interaction and strengthen family bonds. By taking small steps and creating a supportive environment, you can make family dinners a cherished tradition filled with love, laughter, and meaningful conversation.
[i] We are categorically in favor of modern technology. However, technology should be a tool to serve humanity and must not become our master or destroy the most extraordinary human institution, the family.
It has been demonstrated beyond any doubt that children brought up in this environment develop the tremendous self-confidence necessary to become successful individuals in adult life.
