Living in the moment, not through a screen
“Ok, Mom. If we are going to Itasca, I don’t want anyone on their phones. Phones stay off and put away.”
This is rich, I think. My 8-year-old son, who is constantly sneaking screen time, is laying down the law on screens. We are getting ready for our annual visit to Itasca State Park with my side of the family. It’s where the Mississippi begins! It’s a childhood favorite of mine- a place I cherish and want my kids to know and love, too.
“Well, I think you are right in your idea,” I say carefully, wanting him to know I am supporting him. “Remember that we will need our phones to get a hold of each other, because we are staying in separate parts of the park.”
He considers this. “Yeah, good point.”
“But I think what you are getting at is that you don’t want to see us all staring at our phones. We should be where we are.”
“Exactly, Mom. Like, we are in nature! Breathe! Look around! You don’t just sit there staring at a screen!”
Aside from wishing I was recording the conversation to use in later situations, I appreciate his thoughts about this. He’s right.
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