National Week

Screen-Free Week

On Screen-Free Week, we make a little room on the calendar for the thing that makes us who we are.

Why it matters

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

UNPLUG AND RECONNECT

During Screen-Free Week, rediscover the joy of in-person interactions away from screens.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
━━━━ FAST FACTS ━━━━
WHEN
April 29 to May 5, 2024
ORIGIN
Founded in 1996 by the Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood
STAT
Children spend an average of 7 hours a day on screens
STAT
Screen exposure is linked to increased anxiety in teens
VIBE
Promotes creativity, mindfulness, and family bonding
★ ★ ★

THE STORY

★ ★ ★

Screen-Free Week encourages participants to take a break from screens and rediscover the joys of life offline. Established in 1996, this initiative aims to combat the increasing screen time among children and adults alike. By engaging in screen-free activities, families and individuals can foster stronger relationships and promote healthier lifestyles. The week serves as a reminder that life exists beyond digital devices, allowing for deeper connections with those around us.

During this week, communities can come together to plan events that encourage participation. From outdoor festivals to local workshops, the possibilities are endless. Schools may choose to incorporate activities that promote screen-free learning, while parents can organize playdates that focus on interactive, unplugged fun. The goal is to inspire creativity and connection through activities that do not involve screens, ultimately leading to a more balanced lifestyle.

Research indicates that excessive screen time correlates with various health issues, including anxiety, obesity, and sleep disturbances. By taking a proactive approach through Screen-Free Week, participants can learn to manage their screen time more effectively. Engaging in physical activities, reading, and spending time in nature are just a few ways people are encouraged to explore life beyond screens. Each small step contributes to a larger movement toward healthier habits.

As Screen-Free Week approaches, it is essential to prepare and gather ideas for activities that can replace screen time. Families can brainstorm together, creating a list of their favorite offline pastimes. Whether it’s hiking, crafting, or simply enjoying a meal together, the focus should be on fostering communication and connection. As individuals around the world participate, the collective impact will create a ripple effect, promoting mindfulness and strengthening community ties.

The best moments are often those shared without screens.

— UNKNOWN
★ ★ ★

WORTH KNOWING

★ ★ ★
#1
🌳

Nature Walks

Explore local parks and enjoy the beauty of nature.

#2
🎲

Board Games

Host a game night filled with laughter and fun.

#3
📚

Reading Hour

Dedicate time to dive into your favorite books.

#4
🍽️

Family Meals

Cook together and enjoy meals without distractions.

★ ★ ★

AROUND THE WORLD

★ ★ ★
🇺🇸 North America

North America

Screen-Free Week is widely observed across the U.S., promoting healthier habits.

🇨🇦 Canada

Canada

Canadian families participate in activities that foster connection.

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

United Kingdom

The UK engages in screen-free activities, focusing on community.

🇦🇺 Australia

Australia

Aussies embrace outdoor adventures during this week.

🇩🇪 Germany

Germany

German communities promote creativity and family bonding offline.

🇮🇳 India

India

Families in India are encouraged to explore traditions without screens.

★ ★ ★

DID YOU KNOW?!

★ ★ ★
TRIVIA

Global Participation
Screen-Free Week is celebrated in over 40 countries.

TRIVIA

Increased Awareness
The event has led to a surge in screen-free initiatives.

TRIVIA

Health Benefits
Studies show reduced anxiety levels in families who unplug.

TRIVIA

Creative Alternatives
Many find new hobbies during Screen-Free Week.

TRIVIA

Community Events
Local organizations often host screen-free activities.

TRIVIA

Historical Context
Screen time has increased dramatically in the last two decades.

TRIVIA

Parental Involvement
Parents report improved communication during screen-free activities.

★ ★ ★

READ MORE

★ ★ ★
FAMILY

The Family Table

By Jazz Smollett

Discover recipes and activities that bring families together.

HEALTH

Digital Minimalism

By Cal Newport

A guide to managing technology use in a healthy way.

MINDFULNESS

The Power of Now

By Eckhart Tolle

A classic that encourages living in the moment.

CREATIVITY

The Art of Unplugging

By Michael Harris

Explore ways to foster creativity without screens.

★ ★ ★

PAIR IT WITH

★ ★ ★
🌞
NATURE

Reconnect with the great outdoors.

🤝
COMMUNITY

Strengthen bonds with your neighbors.

📖
READING

Rediscover the joy of books.

🎨
CREATIVITY

Engage in hands-on activities.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Join Screen-Free Week

Take part in Screen-Free Week and discover the joy of connecting with loved ones in meaningful, screen-free ways.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

How to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate Screen-Free Week.

  • Do one small thing that makes the day feel marked.
  • Tell someone what you're celebrating and why.
  • Share a post, a photo, or a memory connected to it.
  • Make a tiny tradition — something you could do again next year.
  • Let it be simple. Not every celebration has to be a production.

Celebration ideas by audience

For families

Do one small thing together that everyone will remember.

For kids

Turn it into a craft, a story, or a snack — meet them where they are.

For couples

Use the day as an excuse for a little intentional time together.

At the office

Acknowledge the day in the team chat or at a stand-up. Small, sincere, fast.

At school

Anchor a short lesson or activity around the day.

In your community

Share, volunteer, or donate to make the day mean something locally.

On your own

Celebrate quietly and completely. One person can still mark a day.