Unplug and Play returns to the Central Okanagan next week

Back for its eighth year, Interior Savings Unplug and Play and Family Literacy Week will be taking place from Jan. 23 to 29.

It’s a way for families with young children to disconnect from online and celebrate screen-free play and learning!

Off-screen time is critical for developing essential life skills such as self-regulation, creativity and learning through physical and imaginative play.

During the past year, due to the pandemic, many families have relied even more on on-screen devices for entertainment and social connection.

Although one hour or less is recommended, most Canadian children between the ages of two and five spend more than two hours each day engaged in screen-time.

This week provides families with an opportunity to increase time spent participating in healthy and interactive activities.

“As the pandemic continues, many of us are spending more time connected to screens for work, school or socialization. Now more than ever, the message of finding a healthy balance is an important one,” says Kathy Conway, CEO of Interior Savings.

“Interior Savings Unplug and Play Family Literacy Week is an invitation to replace sedentary screen time with new activities or old favourites. Our hope is that it will provide opportunities for families to make memories and connect in meaningful ways.”

Starting Sunday there's a wide variety of free, fun family events happening around the Central Okanagan.

Winter Walks, Pool Parties, and Library Laughs are just a few of the activities that have been scheduled for the week; a full list can be found here.

“We’re very happy to have many community partners providing families with ways to unplug, and in accordance with public health orders,” says Paul Zuurbier, Executive Director of Project Literacy Central Okanagan Society, the organizers of the event.

Ditch the screen and check out what fun activities are planned for Unplug and Play, all events will be following PHO guidelines.