Get ready to put down your phones, tablets, and remote controls. Nevada County Public Health invites you to join your community in celebrating Screen Free Week, April 29th through May 5th.
Why Go Screen-Free?
We know that kids (and adults!) spend too much time on our devices. Preschool children spend between 2-5 hours a day using electronics. Older kids average 7 hours a day. Adults aren’t immune; we spend about 11 hours a day on screens.
We also know so much screen time isn’t healthy for us. It may negatively affect brain development for young children. It can increase children’s risk for obesity later in life. Too much screen-time for teens can mean they are less likely to hang out with friends. They’re also more likely to feel lonely or depressed. In people of all ages, screen-time can make it harder to fall asleep. It also takes time away from walking, cooking, family time, and just being outside.
So take the week of April 29th through May 5th to unplug. Spend the week reading, drawing, playing, hiking, and creating. Explore new walking trails. Connect with family and friends.
Need Some Ideas?
The community is coming together to offer activities for you and your family during Screen Free Week. Here are just a few of the things you can do:
Dream Art at the Madelyn Helling Library
April 30, 3:00 to 5:00 pm
Inspired by the Storywalk Book “Dreamers” by Yuyi Morales, make collage art about your dreams. All ages welcome.
Teen Hike with NEO on Deer Creek Tribute Trail
April 30, 4:00 to 7:00 pm. RSVP required. Call or text (530) 470-3869.
“Hike Like A Girl”
The Bear Yuba Land Trust (BYLT), The Friendship Club, and Folk Trails Hiking Club have teamed up to celebrate national Hike like a Girl Weekend to encourage female-identified people of all ages to walk or hike this weekend and every day. Free guided hikes will be offered on various BYLT trails.
May 4 and 5. Info at BYLT.org/events.
Food Love Farm Annual Plant Sale
May 4th, 9:00 am-1:00 pm. Potluck at 1:00 pm.
Bring the kids from 12-3 to explore the farm, run around on a scavenger hunt, play compost bingo and more.
16200 Lake Vera Purdon Road, Nevada City
Visit the Nevada County Public Health website to print a Screen-Free pledge card and download a complete list of activities.