I know as busy parents it can be hard trying to juggle family and career while also fitting in some “you” time. These days, we are all plugged in 24/7 to technology. Phones, laptops, notebooks, DVRs, and such rule our world. There’s so much going on and so much to do! But recently I was reminded by my 9-year-old daughter that a little unplugging is not only necessary, but also can be a great way to spend time with your little ones.
As a blogger and work-at-home mom, I make the majority of my living online. I have deadlines that I have to complete, videos and podcasts to record, and travel that I am required to do a few times each month. I am one busy chick! It is hard for me to find the time to completely step away from the computer and all social media to just be still and in the moment with my family. Unplugging can be healthy and can be used as a restorative measure—when you come back, you are refocused and renewed.
A few weeks ago, my daughter challenged me to stay completely unplugged for 24 hours. I accepted her challenge and began to think of ways I could fill my time.
My daughter then began to “schedule” our day. It would be spent playing together and having fun as a family. And you know what? It was totally fun! We played board games, we drew pictures and painted together, we played with her dolls, and we had a few storytime sessions. The time went by so fast, before I knew it, a full 24 hours passed by, and I didn’t even miss social media or my iPhone or iPad. We were totally submerged in playtime, and it was an amazing experience.
I fell back in love with playtime, something I haven’t done in years!
And I also learned a valuable lesson. The world outside can wait and be put on pause when it comes to spending quality time with my child and with my loved ones. Nothing is more important than that.
Moms and dads reading this, I pass this challenge on to you: it’s time we all fall back in love with playtime and unplug awhile for our kids. They will cherish you for it!