Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, togetherness, and reflection. Yet, in today’s digital world, the constant presence of screens can quietly pull us away from these meaningful moments. This is particularly concerning when we consider the growing impact of screen time on children and teenagers.
Recent data reveals that 50.4% of teens aged 12–17 spend four or more hours daily on screens outside of school-related activities, with some demographics, such as Black non-Hispanic teens, reaching rates as high as 60.4% (CDC, 2023). These statistics are alarming, especially when paired with evidence of rising mental health challenges. Among teens who use screens for four or more hours a day, 27.1% report symptoms of anxiety, and 25.9% report symptoms of depression. These figures are more than double those of teens who use screens for less than four hours daily.
It’s not just about the hours spent staring at a device. The content consumed and the way we interact with technology also play a significant role. Social media, for example, creates an environment ripe for comparison and FOMO (fear of missing out), especially during the holiday season when curated, “perfect” moments flood our feeds. This constant exposure can leave young users feeling isolated, inadequate, or overwhelmed. Moreover, the overstimulation of bright visuals, autoplay videos, and endless notifications can contribute to emotional exhaustion and even disrupt sleep patterns, compounding the negative effects on mental health.
Thanksgiving offers a unique opportunity to step away from screens and focus on real-world connections. This isn’t about banning technology but rather using it intentionally and setting boundaries to ensure it doesn’t detract from the things that matter most. For instance, creating tech-free zones, such as keeping devices off the dining table, can encourage deeper, more meaningful conversations during meals. Families can also plan screen-free activities, like sharing stories of gratitude, playing games, or taking a walk together, to foster collaboration and connection.
When screens are used, they can be part of the day in meaningful ways. A video call to distant family members or looking up recipes together online can enhance the holiday experience without dominating it. The key is to ensure technology serves as a tool, not a distraction.
As adults, it’s crucial to model balanced screen habits. Children take cues from their parents, so when adults put their devices aside to engage fully, it sets an example of mindfulness and presence. This Thanksgiving, consider leading by example and demonstrating that the most important moments aren’t the ones shared on social media but the ones experienced together.
The holiday season is often accompanied by pressure to create perfect, shareable moments. Social media encourages us to craft curated versions of our lives, but the true beauty of Thanksgiving lies in the imperfect, unscripted moments, the laughter over a family joke, the smells of a home-cooked meal, or the quiet contentment of simply being together.
This Thanksgiving, let’s take a step back from the constant pull of screens. By intentionally balancing technology and prioritizing offline connections, we can nurture our mental health, strengthen our relationships, and create memories that truly matter. After all, the most meaningful parts of the holiday can’t be captured in a post—they can only be lived.
How will you be balancing screen time and family connection this Thanksgiving? Let’s share ideas and start a conversation.