Reclaim the Holidays: Creative Ways to Cut Down Screen Time

Updated – Originally published December 18, 2020

The holiday season is a time for family, celebration, and making memories together. However, it can also be a period where screens become more prominent — especially with time off from school and festive downtime. 

Striking a balance between relaxation and screen time can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Here are some practical ways to limit screen time while keeping the holiday spirit alive (without stressing yourself out).

Make the Dinner Table a No-Phone Zone

One of the easiest and most effective ways to ensure quality family time is to make the dinner table a screen-free zone. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or holiday dinners, gathering around the table without the distraction of devices will encourage meaningful conversations. 

It’s a time to share stories, bond, and be fully present with each other. This simple habit can quickly become a cherished holiday tradition.

Not only do tech-free dinners mean more quality time, but regular family dinners are linked to lower rates of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders, and early pregnancy, as well as higher resilience and improved self-esteem. 

Play With Your Kids

During the holidays, kids are looking for connection and fun with their parents. Instead of letting them default to their devices, take the opportunity to engage in play.

Whether it’s board games, building snowmen, or crafting holiday decorations, getting involved in their activities shows them that spending time together can be more enjoyable than being glued to a screen. It also reinforces the idea that reduced screen time is not a punishment.

These playful moments can create memories that last long after the season is over.

Have Go-To Activities Ready

It helps to have a few go-to activities planned for those moments when kids might naturally reach for their devices. 

Set up simple crafts, puzzles, or even a lego station that can keep them engaged without screens. The key is to have options available, so they don’t automatically reach for a tablet or TV. Let them have some say in choosing these activities to keep them excited and invested.

Take Advantage of Your Surroundings

The holidays often provide opportunities to explore the world outside the home. Whether it’s a walk through the neighborhood to see holiday lights, a hike through the winter landscape, or a visit to local holiday markets, taking advantage of your surroundings keeps everyone engaged and away from screens.

Encourage the family to bundle up and enjoy the festive atmosphere, soaking in the sights and sounds that come with the season.

Make Screen Time a Family Activity

Not all screen time has to be off-limits. In fact, you can make screen time a bonding activity by watching a favorite holiday movie together or playing a family-friendly video game. 

By turning screen time into a shared experience, you’re not just limiting it — you’re giving it purpose and connection. Just be mindful of how much time you spend and make sure it doesn’t take away from other activities.

Create a Holiday Schedule

With the days off from school and regular routines thrown out of balance, having a loose holiday schedule can help manage screen time without feeling like you’re constantly monitoring. 

Plan out certain times for family activities, meals, outdoor adventures, and screen-free zones. This gives everyone a sense of structure, but without the rigidity of a normal school week. Let kids know when they can expect screen time and what other exciting things are on the schedule to keep them focused on holiday fun.

Set a Good Example

Children naturally model the behaviors they see. If you’re always glued to your phone or laptop, they’ll pick up on that. Try to be mindful of your own screen habits during the holidays, especially during family gatherings or special moments. 

Put your phone down during conversations, while eating, or when playing with your kids. When they see you valuing real-life interactions, they’ll be more likely to follow suit.

Create Lasting Memories Beyond the Screen

Limiting screen time during the holidays doesn’t have to feel like a battle or a burden. By creating fun, meaningful experiences, setting clear boundaries, and leading by example, you can strike a balance that feels manageable and enjoyable for the whole family. After all, the true magic of the season is found in the time spent together, not in front of a screen.

We’d love to hear how your family balances screen time during the holidays. What are your favorite screen-free activities or tips for staying connected? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below.