I’m sure you’ve seen it, or even been part of it…going out to eat in a restaurant and no one is talking. Everyone is typing away on their smart phones and ignoring one another. The only time they put their phones down is to eat, and even then, most people have learned the skill of eating with one hand while scrolling on the other.

This makes me so sad.

Families disconnected from each other, but virtually connected to Facebook, Twitter, the news, or text messages. I admit, it is so tempting to check that e-mail, check out the world of TMZ, or go on Pinterest to get lost in a world of pin-magic. But my grandma used to say there is a time and place for everything.

Today family time is something we have to make happen – when in reality, it should be in our routines and programed in our DNA. Without connections how can we have powerful relationships? Staying connected on our laptops or phones might even be teaching the next generation that connections are made by staring at a screen.

At the Camp Fire Child Development Center, we always encourage families to put down their phones and communicate with their children – even if they are just infants. When your children are in the 0-3 age group, their brains are literally building, connecting, and growing constantly. Did you know that 85% of your brain is developed by age three? Giving your toddler technology too early can be harmful for their long-term success. If you aren’t sure how much exposure is too much, there are plenty of resources to help determine what’s best for your family.

Some of the things that I have done with my family have really opened communication between us. Here are some of the things you can do to stay connected:

  • Eat dinner at the table together every night – no technology. Eating dinner is a great opportunity to open up with one another and connect. Make sure to stay specific in the questions you are asking your kids.
  • Make one night a week designated for family night. Everyone stays home and participates in an activity. Board games are a fun way to spend time together and you would be surprised about the learning that goes on with games!
  • Cook together as a family. Cooking projects are a fun way to learn together and spend time bonding. Pinterest has so many family fun recipes (but find it ahead of time!).

Make sure to have meaningful connections with loved ones every day. We thrive on connections and relationships!

Angela Junkin is the Director of the Camp Fire Child Development Center. Angela has more than 15 years of experience in early education as both a classroom teacher and center administrator. She has a Child Development Associate credential and a Child Care Center Director’s License. Angela believes a child care center should be a home-away-from-home. She enjoys connecting with children and encourages strong relationships between center staff and families.