As the holiday season approaches, families often gather in homes filled with laughter and joy. In Brooklyn, the excitement of welcoming grandparents, cousins, and children creates a delightful atmosphere. However, a recurring issue has affected these gatherings: adults and teenagers absorbed in their phones, seemingly disconnected from those nearby.
In an effort to enhance connection, a suggestion for a game of Monopoly was met with a quip from my cousin, who stated, “We already are playing,” his attention fixed on an online game. This moment highlights a growing concern—while technology connects us globally, it often disconnects us from those in our immediate vicinity.
The birth of a phone-free holiday tradition
Two years ago, my cousin Jeremy, a culinary expert raising his children in Pittsburgh, proposed a novel solution: a ban on phones in communal areas during family gatherings. Adults could check messages privately if necessary, but shared spaces would remain screen-free. This initiative resonated with me and his wife, Meredith, leading us to adopt this guideline.
The outcome was striking. Without device distractions, teenagers engaged with toddlers, playing games and creating a lively atmosphere. Meanwhile, adults gathered around the coffee table, enthusiastically working on the New York Times crossword puzzle. Laughter filled the room as stories were exchanged, and, as tradition dictates, at least one uncle dozed off in a chair, blissfully unaware of the friendly chaos around him.
Reaping the rewards of presence over pixels
Since that initial trial, every family gathering—be it summer vacations, Thanksgiving, or casual weekend visits—has embraced this phone-free philosophy. The difference is evident; being physically present fosters genuine interactions and bonding, reminiscent of our childhood days spent together.
Rediscovering the joy of togetherness
Without the distractions of notifications and social media, the atmosphere transforms. Conversations deepen as everyone shares memories and experiences, cultivating a sense of belonging that can easily be lost in the digital world. Children learn the art of interaction, while adults rediscover the significance of community in real-time.
This shift has also sparked creativity in our family activities. With no one retreating to their devices, board games, storytelling, and collaborative cooking have taken center stage, allowing us to create cherished memories that endure long after the holidays.
Encouraging others to join the movement
Implementing a phone-free rule may seem challenging in a society that thrives on constant connectivity. However, consider it a challenge rather than a restriction. Share this idea with family and friends, emphasizing the potential for enriched interactions and deeper relationships. You might find they are eager to participate, excited by the chance to rediscover the joy of undistracted time together.
As the holiday season approaches, reflect on your own gatherings. What if you stepped back from your devices? What if the focus shifted from screens to the smiles and laughter of those around you? The most precious gift you can give may be your full attention and presence.
Have you tried something similar at your family gatherings? What traditions enhance your holiday experiences? Together, we can embrace this opportunity for connection, making our holidays not only memorable but truly meaningful.
