What is up with “Free by 5:00” every Friday?
Since SLOCA’s inception, we have encouraged families to use technology wisely. We have educational goals for our students that require concentration, imagination and sustained attention. We believe in the wonder of a good, long story, the necessity of play, and the beauty of human interaction. We also believe in the genius of technology. Technological advances in the last 30 years have been impressive. I personally enjoy my iPhone, MacBook and movies. We use internet research and when my husband and daughter were in India, Skype kept us in touch. I love seeing the photos my daughter posts on Instagram and thanks to a photo texted to me last week, I got to see my son right after his tooth came out at Grandma’s house.
However, as an introvert, a psychologist and a person who values privacy, I have also been forever suspicious of technology and am quite aware that the various forms that being plugged in takes – phones, iPads, computers, Facebook, twitter, handheld game devices, Wii, TV (to name ONLY a few) – together have a power that digs its way silently within us until technology controls us rather than us controlling it. They take up vast amounts of our time, consume our energy, and change the way we relate with those around us. They take us from required tasks, play on our emotions, and change the way our brains work. Yes – really! If you’re not a believer, perhaps you will be after linking to this article Newsweek printed just weeks ago:
Why do we remind you – week after week after week – to turn off your devices on Fridays? As a community wholeheartedly committed to seeing our children thrive, to making the most of our years with kids, and to teaching them the value of hard work, stories, outdoor play and creativity – we believe we need to constantly remind ourselves that the line where technology becomes our enemy rather than our friend is always playing right at our feet. Or, more accurately, right around our minds and hearts.
We know that some of you already have made decisions to limit technology in your home. Share your approach with our community!
Parents, please note that when you link to the article, there may be questionable photos at the bottom of the page, so use caution if allowing kids to read it.
SLO Classical Academy is not affiliated with any of the above mentioned businesses.
