Do you have days off for national or regional holidays where you live?

Every culture celebrates its national holidays differently, but there’s one thing everyone has in common. We can use these special days to spend time together with family and friends.

During your next holiday, try making some screen-free memories together with your family. Use these ideas to get started:

1. Instead of pulling out your phone to take a photo, use a disposable camera or film camera! You won’t be able to see the photos immediately, but your family will love looking at prints together once you get them developed.
2. Holidays are often celebrated with special parades, free community events or musical concerts. Research events going on before the big day so you aren’t busy looking at your mobile device. Jot down details on your family calendar.
3. Get excited about the holiday as a family by reading books or telling stories. For example, “On Tuesday you won’t be going to daycare. Instead, we’re going to celebrate Independence Day together!” Prepare your older children by giving them a heads up that it’s a screen-free day and they can find a safe place to store their iPad for the day.
4. Let your extended family know that you won’t be on your phone much during the day, in case they planned to call. Let them know why you’re choosing to spend screen-free time, and when would be a good time to catch up after the holiday.

These are just a few ideas for spending your holiday time together with your family. We’d love to hear your ideas as well! Let us know how you make holidays special in your family in the comments below.

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