Quote:
Originally Posted by Digging4Truth
But... but... but... what about computer based lyrics projections on the screen?
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Doesn't really count.
I recently read a book called
Simplicity Parenting, which has led me to simplify several things in our schedule and limit access to media. One of the things we have done is to turn off all media (for the kids) after 7 pm. Phones are turned off, computers shut down, tv is turned off and gaming devices are off limits. If Jeff and I watch something, it's quietly in our bedroom, or maybe even using headphones. None of the media comes back on until the following day after schoolwork, reading and music is completed.
This one small change has remarkably improved the kids' ability to go to sleep at their regular bedtime, and they have all been more focused on music and reading. For some reason, these parameters have worked better than my previous one of "an hour a day." Usually the latter would be surrounded by arguments and pleading for more time on the computer, time to finish a tv show, etc. We told them initially that they shouldn't start any movies, shows or games that couldn't be turned off at 7, because everything would be turned off unapologetically even if they were in the middle of something. (And it has been.) We extended it to 8pm on Friday and Saturday nights. Bedtime now remains virtually the same on the weekends - 8:30 on school nights, 9:00 on Friday and Saturday.
My point is that this one simple reduction in media exposure has benefited our family in multiple ways. In our media-rich culture, people need to remind themselves that it really isn't needed. Technology is a luxury, and one that our family in particular appreciates, but it can also detract from family life in MANY ways. A yearly, monthly or weekly fast can only be beneficial in my estimation.