Working Mother’s June/July 2012 issue reiterated an important topic in my mommy world. The mini-article said, “In our topsy-techie world, it’s easy to succumb to digital distractions—smartphones, TV, gaming devices—at the table. You may permit them to help the kids (and you) make it through dinner, but “they mean lost opportunities to build strong family bonds,” says parenting expert Jeremy G. Schneider.”
What a topic!?!
Are you on the same page with your spouse on this issue? I can’t say that I am with my husband’s line of work. It’s the only time of the day that the three of us—-daddy, mommy, & daughter—have to sit down face to face with one another. We enjoy dinners at home more than eating out in our hometown because there’s always someone out in public that wants to discuss tile, a water leak, an electrical problem or more! I always want to scream, “Can you please respect that we are out together as a family?” When does a contractor’s attire say I’m not working; I’m with my family. It’s difficult to draw the line whether we are out in public or in the privacy of our own home.
I definitely unplug when I’m with the two most important people in my life, especially at dinner. I love that time together, preparing dinner, setting the table, saying the blessing, eating, and enjoying conversation. I let my cell phone ring and/or beep if we’re in the kitchen together, likewise with the home phone. The kitchen flat screen is in the off position unless there’s a storm brewing; then the weather channel is on (and in temporary moments cartoons are on as the last minute preparations of dinner are concluded prior to our face time at the table). My laptop is not allowed in the kitchen at this time.
Working Mother states, “Music of most any kind in the background helps create a convivial dining ambiance. By making distraction-free dinner times the norm early on, you’ll create a habit of table talk that may help even sullen teens speak up later.” I definitely have to agree with these statements. Music helps me focus and talk time with those I love opens the door for further communication and bonds to develop. If we could look at our lives backwards, we’d realize how important it is to focus on those uninterrupted moments together.
How do you promote face time with those you love at home? Do you partake in no tech zones throughout various areas of your home and/or times?
Litsa
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