It’s not just the kids.
Parents check email during dinner. Kids watch YouTube while riding in the car. Everyone scrolls before bed. Screens have become part of almost every moment of our day — connecting us to friends, work, and entertainment.
But there’s a flip side. Sometimes we realize that even when we’re all in the same room, we’re not really together. Mom is catching up on messages, Dad’s checking the weather, and the kids are gaming — all just a few feet apart.
If you’ve ever looked around and thought, “We could use a break from all this,” you’re not alone. A short “digital detox” can help your family reconnect, spark new conversations, and make time for simple fun.
What is a family digital detox?
A family digital detox doesn’t mean giving up technology forever. It’s simply a set time when everyone puts away their devices — phones, tablets, TVs, gaming systems — and focuses on being present with each other.
That could mean a couple of hours each evening with no screens, a weekend challenge, or even a weeklong break during school holidays.
On average, children ages 8-12 in the United States spend 4-6 hours a day watching or using screens, and teens spend up to 9 hours, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry:
Too much screen time can affect sleep, mood, school performance, and even the ability to read nonverbal cues. One study published in Computers in Human Behavior found that preteens who spent five days at an outdoor camp without devices became better at picking up on emotional expressions.
And it’s not just kids who benefit. For adults, unplugging can reduce stress, help restore work-life balance, and improve focus.
Tips for starting a digital detox with your family
If your family is used to constant screen access, cutting back can be a challenge. Here are a few ways to make it easier (and more fun):
Keep it positive: Focus on what you can do, not what you can’t.
Start small: Begin with an evening or two each week before moving to longer breaks.
Make it a family decision: Talk about why you’re doing it and let everyone help choose activities.
Plan ahead: Have a list of options ready so there’s no temptation to fall back on screens.
Fun family activities for screen-free time
When you’re used to instant entertainment, it can be hard to know what to do instead. Here are some ideas that can make screen-free time something everyone looks forward to.
Get moving together
Go for a walk, ride bikes, shoot hoops in the driveway, or head to a local park. Movement helps everyone release energy and boosts mood.
Try something creative
Work on a puzzle, bake a new recipe, or start an art project. You could even create a family “yearbook” with printed photos.
Explore outside
Have a picnic in the backyard, look for constellations, or visit a nearby hiking trail. Nature can be a great reset for the mind.
Give back
Volunteer at a community event, donate old toys, or make cards for a local nursing home.
Enjoy a swim spa session
A Master Spas swim spa can be a built-in screen-free zone. The warm water and fun activities make it easy for everyone to forget about their devices. Try:
- Swim and soak — One person swims against the current while others relax in the therapy seats.
- Water games — Play with waterproof cards, beach balls, or dive sticks.
- Float time — Everyone grabs a comfy float for a relaxing break.
- Starry night soak — Adjust the temperature for evening comfort and watch the night sky together.
Making screen-free time a family habit
A digital detox doesn’t have to be a one-time thing. Whether it’s 20 minutes before bed or a Saturday afternoon in the backyard, scheduling regular device-free moments can help you build habits that keep your family connected.
If you’re looking for a fun, relaxing way to make screen-free time a highlight of your week, a Master Spas swim spa can be the perfect gathering place. You’ll have space to swim, relax, and enjoy each other’s company — no charging cable required.
Explore the swim spa options from Master Spas and see how you can turn “unplugged” time into your family’s favorite time.