I’m raising my kids in a world that’s overflowing with screens—but I still want their childhood to feel real, present, and grounded. So one of the ways we’ve started shifting things in our home is by redefining how we use technology.
A big one?
We’ve mostly stopped using FaceTime—on purpose.
Why We’re Moving Away from FaceTime
We still use it occasionally—especially for our almost 2-year-old, who doesn’t talk much yet. The visual connection does help him feel more engaged, and it’s sweet to see his face light up when he sees grandma or grandpa.
But for my older girls, something started to feel off.
It wasn’t just about the screen time—it was about the way FaceTime was changing the conversation.
When you FaceTime, you’re constantly managing:
- Facial expressions
- Background distractions and noises
- What’s in the frame
- How you look
It can be a bit overstimulating—especially for kids who are still learning how to just be in a conversation.
So we switched things up.
Now we encourage them to hold the phone to their ear—like it’s 1995 again—and just talk.
No screen.
No distractions.
Just voice.
And honestly? It’s working.
They listen more. They focus more.
They’re not watching themselves on screen—they’re in the moment.
And they aren’t fighting over the phone…say what??
Also, anyone else totally over the emoji faces?
There’s Research Behind It, Too
Studies show that voice-only calls create less cognitive load than video calls.
That means it’s easier to concentrate and connect.
And isn’t that the point of calling someone in the first place?
How We Use Tech on Our Terms
We’re not screen-free. But we are screen-smart.
Here’s how we make it work for us:
What We Do Use (Sparingly and Intentionally):
- Khan Academy Kids (great for learning through games)
- PBS Kids (gentle, educational shows we trust)
- ABC Mouse (especially for early reading + phonics)
- Library Movie Night (popcorn, cuddles, one screen for the whole family we pick up one DVD from the library…I actually miss Blockbusters)
- Dance Parties (our sound system + dance lights + Apple Music = joy — typically in the kitchen)
Just as important as screen time?
- Game Night.
Board games, card games, silly made-up games.
We laugh, argue, and make memories around the table. - Boredom.
Yes, it makes the list again. Because when the screens are off, boredom eventually leads to magic.
So What’s the Point?
We’re not trying to recreate the 90s in some forced, fake way.
We’re not afraid of modern tools.
But we are trying to teach our kids:
- How to be present
- How to connect without a screen in their face
- How to enjoy tech without depending on it
And sometimes that starts with something simple:
Like putting down the tablet, picking up the phone, and just… talking.
It’s old-school.
It’s awkward at first.
But it’s working.
And honestly? It feels kind of amazing.
Run Teach Bike 