Hi Liberty Parents and Families,

I am Shane Zavala, known as Mr. Z in school. My role is the Instructional Technology Coach and my main job is to help teachers and students use technology in a way that leads to them learning better. Part of my role is to also fostering Digital Citizenship, the idea that teens are growing up in uncharted and fast-moving waters when it comes to how modern technology is impacting their growth and development.

Today, our school is participating in the Global Day of Unplugging, a chance to step away from our screens and reconnect with ourselves and each other. Teachers have made efforts to reduce screen time and activities in class, and students are being given an opportunity to reflect on their own relationships with screens.

We know it's a big ask to drastically reduce screen time in today's world, but even small changes can make a difference. If you can make an effort today or tomorrow to support this movement, I think there are a lot of potential benefits. I also want to acknowledge there is a certain sense of irony that you are most likely reading this on a screen.

You can find the video lesson at the end of this blog post if you would like to see what has shown to students. 

Here's how you can support this initiative:

Why Unplug?

• Strengthen Family Bonds: Unplugging creates space for meaningful conversations and shared experiences.
• Boost Mental Well-being: Reducing screen time can alleviate stress, improve sleep, and enhance focus.
• Foster Creativity: Stepping away from screens encourages us to engage in imaginative play and creative pursuits.
• Prioritize Children's Mental Health: The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry highlights the importance of limiting screen time for children's healthy development.

Simple Ways to Unplug:

• Tech-Free Hour: Designate a specific hour (or more!) where all devices are turned off.
• Family Activities: Go for a walk, play board games, have a picnic, or engage in a creative project together.
• Designated Charging Station: Create a central charging station outside of bedrooms to encourage device-free sleep.
• Mindful Meals: Make mealtimes screen-free zones to foster conversation and connection.
• Nature Walks: Go outside and enjoy the natural world.

Advice and Suggestions:

• Lead by Example: Put away your own devices and actively participate in unplugged activities.
• Communicate Clearly: Explain the purpose of the unplugging day to your children and involve them in planning activities.
• Set Realistic Expectations: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase the duration of unplugged time.
• Find Alternatives: Have a list of non-screen activities readily available to avoid boredom.

Resources:

• American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP): Learn why limiting screen time is crucial for children's development: Children and Screen Time
• Global Day of Unplugging: Visit the official Global Day of Unplugging website for more information and resources: Global Day of Unplugging
• Global Day of Unplugging - Unplug What to Do Collection: Get ideas for unplugged activities: Unplug What to Do Collection
• Common Sense Media: Provides helpful tips and advice on managing screen time for families: Common Sense Media
• Child Mind Institute: Offers expert advice on the impact of technology on children's mental health: Child Mind Institute
• Mayo Clinic: Offers comprehensive information on screen time and children's health: Mayo Clinic - Screen Time
• Screenagers Movie Blog - Positive Discipline Screen Time: Get tips on positive discipline related to screen time: Positive Discipline Screen Time

I hope you use The Global Day of Unplugging as a springboard for changing or talking about healthier tech habits for your entire family. 

Thank you for your support! Feel free to reach out to me at @email if you have feedback or want support! I am here for you just as much as I am here for the students and staff.