Amy C Walters

I wanted to share something that my family is doing that I’m really excited about–a Screen Break Challenge. The idea came while I was praying for my kids–and for wisdom to raise them well. I was feeling concerned about the effects of screen time on our brains and praying that I would set good boundaries for my kids. But I realized that I don’t exactly have great boundaries for myself! I needed to be a better model of healthy habits. With Easter coming up, it seemed like a great time to do something about it. 

Thus the Screen Break Challenge was born! My husband, my daughter and I (the family members with smartphones) will each aim to have the lowest average daily screen time in the weeks leading up to Easter. The screen time limits only apply to smartphones since it’s easy to track and we all need our computers for work and school. 

The person with the lowest average during the challenge period will be the winner and will receive a prize. My son, whose screen habits are far more disciplined than the rest of us, will choose a punishment for the loser. 

There are several things I love about our challenge. First, it provides accountability. We’ll have to report to one another each week. And my son is sure to give us the stink eye if we fall into old habits! 

Second, it brings us together. Smartphones can easily silo us into our own little worlds. This challenge is something we can unite around. We’ll even look for things to do together to avoid defaulting to our phones. 

Third, it uses gamification to build discipline. Cutting back on screen time could feel like a punishment. But approaching it as a competition with a prize at the end adds an important element of fun that makes it more likely to stick. 

Finally, the timing is limited but enough to build new habits. If the challenge were too long, we’d be reluctant to do it. Too short and we would easily revert to old habits afterward. 

Our challenge also happens to correspond with Lent. Although I didn’t grow up in a church that celebrated Lent, I appreciate the idea of fasting from something in preparation for Easter. And while our challenge does not necessarily have a spiritual component, I do believe there will be spiritual benefits from intentionally reducing our screen time. 

To be honest, it’s going to be hard to beat my daughter! I may be the one facing a punishment dished out by my son. But I’m excited for the process, because the real reward will be being more present with my family.