Most adults think of summer camp as a warm weather break for kids in a remote location. This often means that kids have a week or more without technological devices, like TV, video games or tablets. Imagine if we asked adults to do the same thing. It is definitely easier said than done, BUT I challenge EVERY ONE to take a tech break – at least a week where you “unplug” and live life without taking a picture of it on Instagram or sharing where you are on Facebook. Just do it.

Fun Without The Screen

If you were to ask people about the meaning of summer camp, chances are that most answers would be similar. Summer camp presents the opportunity for young people to develop new friendships, learn new skills and enjoy the warm weather. Few people would even think of responding with an answer that involves video games, mobiles, movies, television and other electronics.

The summer camp experience is meant to enrich you and empower you to round out your edges. Why not think about a place you’d like to visit that you have read about or watched on The Travel Channel. Maybe it is an activity you have always wanted to do, like zip-lining or skydiving. Or, maybe it a museum you have wanted to explore, such as The Smithsonian or The Chicago Art Institute. Plan and take a week off. Tell your “friends” or “followers” that you will be offline for a week, and just go.

When you scrap your electronic devices for weeks or months of interaction with other people, beautiful things can happen. Relationships can form, activities can be enjoyed (that don’t involve screens) and memories that can last a lifetime can be made. Tech-less “summer camps” or vacations allow you to develop meaningful bonds with other people, face to face, instead of through a computer or telephone screen.

Some Form of Social Is Always Available

So, how are you supposed to reach someone if you don’t bring your laptop? Easy. Although it might feel strange for you to be without your phone or mobile computing device, you have a couple of ways to communicate with others while away. You can always pick up a pen and paper to write a letter if you feel the need to touch base with others. Or, send a postcard. I know I thoroughly enjoying reading a letter than receiving an email. There is just something about opening a letter or seeing a photo of where my family and friends are traveling.

Part of the magic of “summer camp” involves self-development. If you learn something new on his own without a reliance on “googling it,” you grow into a self-sufficient, educated person. Isn’t this what we want for our kids? Then, why should we not do this for ourselves?
FYI – I have gone on annual summer weeklong “tech holiday” for 6 years, and I have NEVER regretted it. I actually come back to social media with a clear perspective and refreshed engagement.