This is going to be difficult, but these are surefire ways to unplug for the summer.
What do you think is the greatest challenge facing families this summer? Hot weather? Cancelled plans?
No, it is unplugging from our 24/7 schedule. This means no Texting, no iPod, no Computer. For parents, it means cutting the cord that keeps us connected to work, Twitter, Facebook, or Podcasts.
These suggestions are for all in the family, no matter how old you are.
But with planning and a major dose of self-control, you can ditch the gadgets and enjoy some family face time.
Call a family meeting to discuss your plan. Explain that it's going to be a digital-free day.
So no one feels completely out of touch, plan something media-related that you can all do together. Have a family movie night, or schedule time during the day that gives everyone time to check their email or text a friend.
Children learn more from what we do than from what we say. So say so long to your iPhone or Blackberry.
Plan off-line activities that relate to frisbees, hula hoops, baseball, soccer, jacks, bike riding, whiffle ball...etc.
Unplug your GPS, and have the kids navigate using a paper map. Extra credit for those who refold the map correctly.
Can you hear me now?