"Digital Detox: Ideas for Unplugged Easter Fun for Kids"

As a society, we are increasingly reliant on technology in our daily lives. While it has certainly brought us many benefits, there is growing concern about its impact on our mental health, especially in children. That is why we, at COMMUNITY MIND CONNECT C.I.C. are particularly interested in studying how technology use can affect children's development.

Please note This is open to children of all ages. (With parental assistance of course)

HOW DO I GET INVOLVED?

1. Dedicate one hour of tech-free time to spend together.

2. Document this experience and share via our website.

3. Create a post and click the button below!

UPLOAD

Please be aware that the posts will be shared on our website and other social media platforms automatically. We value privacy and abide by all GDPR guidelines.

If you have any questions or queries about the above then please email us below to discuss further.

thomas@cmindconnect.co.uk

WHY?

For the Easter holidays, we have developed an activity that encourages parents and children to engage together. Our primary intention is to promote a designated time where technology is not used, which we believe will not only positively influence participating families, but also have a wider effect on our community. Our objective is to initiate a discussion on responsible technology usage and how it can enhance the mental health and well-being of our children. We hope that you will join us in backing this initiative. This dedicated tech-free time will give you the opportunity to disconnect from your screens and bond with each other in a meaningful way.

5 EXAMPLES OF TECH-FREE ACTIVITIES

1. Create a family scrapbook

Gather up old photos, keepsakes, and art projects and have your child help you assemble them into a scrapbook. This activity encourages children to use their hands and creativity to arrange and decorate the pages. They can also write captions or stories to accompany the pictures, allowing them to hone their writing skills and express their thoughts and memories. Working on a scrapbook together is a meaningful way to reminisce and strengthen family bonds.

2. Go on a nature scavenger hunt

Take a break from screens and head outdoors for a nature scavenger hunt. Give your child a list of items to find in nature such as rocks, flowers, leaves, and insects. This activity not only gets them moving and exploring, but also teaches them about the natural world. As they check off each item, encourage them to share interesting facts and observations about the things they found. This is a great way to spark curiosity and bond with your child in a natural setting.

3. Have a family game night

Gather the family for a night of board games, card games, or puzzles. Not only is this a fun and engaging activity, but it also promotes teamwork, strategy, and problem-solving skills in children. As they play, take the opportunity to bond and connect with your child by chatting and laughing together. This screen-free activity also teaches children the value of face-to-face interactions and quality time spent with loved ones.

4. Bake or cook together

Put on your chef hats and aprons and recruit your child to help you in the kitchen. Baking or cooking together is not only a practical skill for children to learn, but it's also a great way to bond and have fun. Let your child help with mixing, measuring, and decorating. As they work with you, they'll learn patience, following instructions, and attention to detail. Plus, they'll get to enjoy the fruits of their labor once the finished product is ready to eat.

5. Create a family skit or play

Encourage your child's imagination by working together to create a skit or a play. Let your child come up with the storyline, characters, and dialogue while you assist with props and costumes. This activity allows children to express their creativity and develop storytelling skills. It's also a great way to bond and have some laughs as a family.

PROJECT TITLE: GATEWAY TO REALITY

- An exciting short film created in association with Lancaster University and our local C.I.C. COMMUNITY MIND CONNECT, exploring what reality is and how it can be affected. It features a unique blend of visuals, sounds and ideas. Giving viewers an immersive experience, they won't soon forget.

Location: THE GREGSON ARTS & COMMUNITY CENTRE LANCASTER

- Secret Cinema Room

Character : Digital Babysitter , a superhero from the future here to help us balance our tech use!

Costume design - Special thanks to ITNETUK & 3R Charity Shop Carnforth and the NHS for material donations.

I'd just like to say a massive thank you to all of those involved in making this happen. Taking on multiple roles was very challenging but as a collective we made it work. A fantastic effort by all.

Bringing my creative vision to life was a surreal experience.  - "Thomas Burns" Founder Community Mind Connect C.I.C.

A big thank you to The Gregson Arts & Community Centre for allowing us to shoot at their venue!

#film #cic #thegregsonartsandcommunitycentre #lancaster #communityengagement #mentalhealth #technology

PROJECT TITLE: DOPAMINE

We are excited to announce our latest collaboration with Lancaster University students on a short film project called 'Dopamine'. This project explores the connection between technology, specifically social media, and our mental health. Through this thought-provoking film, we examine how the constant use of social media can create a false sense of dopamine through instant gratification, which can lead to addiction.

Our team at the Community Interest Company (CIC) believes it is our responsibility to raise awareness about the impact of technology on our mental well-being. As a non-profit organization, our mission is to use innovative and creative approaches to address social issues and bring about positive change in our community.

With the rise of social media, our society has become increasingly dependent on technology. We are constantly bombarded with likes, comments, and shares, all in the pursuit of validation and dopamine. But what we often fail to realize is the toll this can take on our mental health. Studies have shown that the overuse of social media can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and a decrease in overall life satisfaction.

Through 'Dopamine', we aim to shed light on this issue and start important conversations about the impact of technology on our mental well-being. Our collaboration with the talented students from Lancaster University has allowed us to bring this subject to life in a unique and captivating way. The film showcases the perspectives of different characters and their experiences with social media, highlighting the negative effects it can have on our mental health.

But our work doesn't stop with the film. As a CIC, we are passionate about using data to further studies and support government organizations in addressing social issues. We strongly believe that our innovative and creative approach to data gathering can play an important role in bringing about effective solutions.

Through 'Dopamine', we hope to spark important discussions and encourage individuals to take a step back and reflect on their relationship with technology. We also aim to provide valuable insights to organizations and policymakers on the impact of technology on mental health.

We are honored to have had the opportunity to collaborate with the talented students from Lancaster University on this project. It is a true testament to the power of teamwork and the impact of bridging the gap between academia and the community.

Finally, we would like to say a big thank you to Charles Tyrer and THE GREGSON COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION LTD for allowing us to shoot at their venue. 

We invite you to join us in our mission to raise awareness about the impact of technology on mental health. Let's work together to create a healthier and more balanced relationship with technology. #Dopamine #MentalHealth #Technology #Collaboration #Community #Innovation #CIC