Dear Village Family,
Welcome back to the second half of our school year! As we begin 2025 together we are excited to launch a school and family digital wellness challenge that promotes intentional disconnection from technology to improve our connection with God and each other as part of our missional growth.
Or as Paul states, do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2
Here are the core goals for our digital wellness operation:
- Strengthen Relationships: Start with more time for God, which will lead to more face-to-face interactions between family members, peers, and educators, fostering deeper connections and stronger bonds.
- Enhance Focus and Productivity: Minimize distractions from devices, allowing students and families to engage fully in academics, extracurricular activities, and personal hobbies.
- Promote Well-being: Reduce anxiety, stress, and feelings of being overwhelmed associated with constant digital engagement.
- Encourage Physical Activity: Replace screen time with activities that promote physical health, such as outdoor play, sports, or exercise.
- Develop Healthy Habits: Teach balance and responsible technology use, empowering students and families to use devices intentionally rather than habitually.
- Foster Creativity and Curiosity: Create space for imaginative play, problem-solving, and hands-on learning without reliance on digital tools.
- Reconnect with Nature and Community: Provide opportunities to engage with the natural environment and participate in local or family-oriented activities.
By stepping back from screens, we as a Village can build a more mindful approach to technology use and reinforce our values of living Christ-centered lives, loving Him and each other. This initiative aligns with two of our missional goals for this school year:
- Reduce technology usage by 25% through purpose
- Increase outdoor time daily by 25% through planning
Each week will we launch a new part of the Digital Wellness initiative as we work to create opportunities for whole person health.
Our Village Digital Wellness Plan - Week 1: Detach – January 6
- Focus:
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- Purposeful reduction of technology use in the classroom and at home. This initial phase was about creating space and regaining a sense of presence.
- School Goal:
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- Reduce technology usage in the classroom by 25%.
- Family Goal:
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- We encouraged you to take the first step in our Digital Wellness operation by removing “distraction” apps (social media, games, news, etc.) and keep only utility apps like phone and text.
- Family Resources:
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Thank you for taking this challenge alongside our family and for building a community of connection in Christ!