Parents urged to unplug and focus on family this Christmas
England's children's commissioner calls for phone-free meals to boost family time during the holidays, citing surveys on tech disruption and online safety.
As families come together for Christmas, a movement to reclaim real conversation and connection is growing. Experts say adults should lead by example and create device free moments, especially at meals.
Lead by example at the table
England's Children’s Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza called on parents to switch off their phones during festive meals, noting that children want more time with relatives. A recent survey shows that almost half of households with children aged 18 and under plan to allow phones at the Christmas dinner table this year.
Many children report that meals are interrupted when adults are on their devices. This Christmas, the guidance is clear: silence the screens and be fully present.
Tech use at Christmas and a new safety guide
Research carried out for a major charity found that nearly four in ten adults feel smartphones have disrupted their Christmas in some way. Dame Rachel also shared that she has struggled with phone use at times and stressed the importance of setting clear rules for all family members, not just kids.
She has released a practical online safety guide to help parents manage digital life. The guide includes practical tips and conversation starters on topics such as screen time, online risks, and the role of artificial intelligence in daily life.
Talk early and often with teens
University of Bath Spa psychologist Pete Etchells says the festive period is a good time to discuss healthy tech habits with young people, focusing on awareness rather than guilt. He recommends opening regular conversations about what works and what could change.
Practical steps for families
Experts suggest simple rules like a family device plan or a box to store phones during meals. Health professional Arabella Skinner notes that children feel safest when adults give them full attention and maintain eye contact.
What Ofcom finds about screen time
A recent Ofcom report highlights concerns about the effects of endless screen time on children. It shows that eight to fourteen year olds spend nearly three hours online each day, with up to a quarter of that time late at night.
Expert view: The goal is to foster balance without shaming anyone, and to start constructive conversations about wellbeing at home.
Summary: The season offers a chance to redefine family routines around technology, with practical guidelines and ongoing dialogue guiding safer digital habits.
Key takeaway: Real connection at Christmas starts when adults put away their devices and give children their full attention.
BBC News
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