Global Day of Unplugging is an annual event held on the first Friday of March that encourages families to spend time with each other away from screens.
To celebrate the day, “Good Morning America” tapped parenting expert Erica Suter to discuss how families can “unplug.”
Souter said the most important way to disconnect is obvious: turn off your phone, computer, television, personal assistant and video games.
“The purpose of this day is to show that you don't always have to have your device on hand,” Suter said. “This is a frightening prospect for most people, but take comfort in the fact that you'll be asleep for a significant amount of time.”
She also had some suggestions for things you and your family can do during screen-free time that can easily fill an entire day.
nature treasure hunt
No special accessories required. “Make a list of things you find outdoors: a green car, a red bird, a person wearing orange sneakers, a small dog, a large dog, a smiling person, a spider, etc.” Web. And there are very few prizes. A little incentive can make it more fun. ”
quick act of kindness
Souter's ideas about kindness are a simple but impactful way to reach out and improve your community.
“I'm going to take cookies to the fire station across the street,” she told GMA, adding, “Maybe it's delivering a flower to my neighbor or shoveling snow for my neighbor.” .
help people in need
Many of us own far more than we actually need, so consider paring back some of your excess for a good cause.
“Everyone can go through their closets, books and toy boxes and find items to donate,” Souter said.
let's cook a meal together
Unplugged days are a great time to try new recipes together as a family. Whether your family loves pancakes or a delicious meal with this viral chicken hack, write down the recipe in advance so you don't have to scroll during your screen time.
learn new things
Suter suggests options like “origami, dancing, knitting,” but the options for things you can learn as a family are endless. Browse our activity book or search for local classes to see what's available in your area.
In addition to the suggestions above, crafts and games are also great ways to unplug and spend the day. Here are some suggestions from Lindsey Peers, owner of Craft Studio NYC, and other “GMA” games you can play without your phone.
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DIY bath bomb
You can also carefully cut a tennis ball in half and use it as a mold, or use the molds linked below to make fun bath bombs at home.
“Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl and the wet ingredients in a small bowl,” Pierce said of the super-simple at-home spa day craft. “Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir quickly. Mix until light and fluffy, then press down until both halves of the bowl or mold are completely filled and secure in place.”
Once dry, take a hot bath and enjoy a relaxing soak.
material
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup citric acid
1/2 cup baking soda
1/3 cup Epsom salt
1 1/2 teaspoons coconut or castor oil
1/2 teaspoon essential oil
1/2 tablespoon water
food coloring
Please purchase the following materials.
DIY metal bath bomb molds 12 pieces, set of 6
Amazon Fresh, Cornstarch, 16 oz. Brand: Ama
Milliard Citric Acid – 100% Pure Food Grade Non-GMO Project Verified (2 lbs.)
365 by Whole Foods Market, Baking Soda, 16 oz.
Dr. Teal's Salt Soak with Pure Epsom Salt, Relax & Relief with Eucalyptus & Spearmint, 3 lbs.
PURE AROMA essential oil 100% pure oil kit
Virgin Coconut Oil, 16 fl oz – Non-GMO, cold-pressed, unrefined coconut oil certified organic – Naturally flavored coconut oil for cooking and baking
Food Coloring Set – 12 Colors of Food Grade Vibrant Food Dyes
DIY body scrub
This recipe is even easier! Simply combine all ingredients in one bowl and divide between storage jars.
material
1 cup cane sugar
1-2 tablespoons safflower oil
5-10 drops of lemon essential oil
5-10 drops of lavender essential oil
Buy materials:
Domino's Granulated White Sugar, 4 lbs.
Daana Safflower Oil: USDA Certified Organic, Extra Virgin, Cold Pressed, High Oleic Acid (12 oz)
MAJESTIC PURE Lemon Essential Oil, Premium Grade, Pure Natural Premium Quality Oil, 4 fl oz.
MAJESTIC Premium Grade Pure Lavender Essential Oil for Aromatherapy, Massage, and Topical Use, 4 fl oz.
DIY lip balm
This recipe makes 6-8 lip balms depending on your storage container. Simply add all ingredients to a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 30 seconds at a time, stirring until the mixture is melted. Once that's done, carefully scoop the mixture into a container and place it in the refrigerator to solidify.
material:
4 tablespoons beeswax
4 tablespoons oil
1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
5-10 drops of lavender essential oil
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