Media Fast - Day 1

Since we're in the middle of a sugar fast, why not a media fast while we're at it? Actually, I will give the credit to my son's sixth grade teacher. The entire class is having a month long media fast from Feb. 1 - Mar. 1. 

"...there is a downside to the modern media because of the great volume of it pouring into our lives. We are in an era when the information superhighway will have the capacity to cut a wide path into our homes. As we consider the importance of nourishing our intellects with the promising potential of superhighway resources, we must be ever cautious about...the impact of media upon our lives. "

M. Russell Ballard

We decided, as a family, to support our son and his efforts by participating in the media fast, too. Here are the rules:

1. Music: Listen to classical or Sunday/church music only

2. Cell Phones: No texting or games. If someone sends you a text, call them back. Cell phones can be used to make calls but please don't make one when you're having a conversation with someone else. (Exception: you may communicate by text with a parent/child)

3. Television/Video/DVD: You may watch ONE sporting even each week. You may watch TWO movies for the month. These need to be done with at least one other family member.

4. Computers: You may do homework and research, but no games, social networking, instant messaging, etc. You may spend up to 15 minutes per day checking and sending email.

5. Video Games: None

We had a family council on Sunday night where we discussed the media fast. Each member of the family committed to it. Some were not too thrilled about it, but they did commit. I'm very proud of them for their willingness to do a hard thing. Instead of focusing on all of the things they're missing out on, we tried to bring out the positive about having more time to focus on things that matter most...family, sleep, extracurricular activities, homework, service, opportunity to make money, etc. Also, the class is going to have a celebration at the end of the month, so our family is, too.

Yesterday was Day 1. I didn't think I would notice very much after just one day, but I was surprised. Here are some of the positive things I witnessed...

1.  My little people played together all day. They played dress up, puzzles, games, tea party, and more dress up. The arguing was diminished.

2. My first grader had more desire to do her school work. She is a movie watcher...it was nice to see her more interested in playing and working.

3. When my five older children came home from school, they gather around me and we talked for at least an hour. It was fabulous! They talked with each other, laughed and had a great time. No fighting!

4. Two of our sons enjoy teasing their little sister. When she purchased a FurReal with her Christmas and birthday money, they spent time helping her figure it out.

5. My son hasn't practiced the piano for a few months (he no longer takes lessons). He sat down and practiced for a half an hour, rather than checking out www.nba.com.

6. Another son spent time dancing and playing to the piano music.

7. My little cub scout gathered the children around the table for a "tea party" while I was fixing dinner. They played happily, and I didn't have any whining or fussing to deal with.

 

8. My oldest daughter randomly gave her sister a hug.

9. This guy spent time learning the ins and outs of a graphing calculator.

10. I felt more peaceful and patient.

I'm enjoying this media fast. I know it's harder for my teenagers since they are the ones that listen to music, text and browse the internet, but if Day 1 is any indication of the rest of the month, I'm Sticking-to-it!

More to Come...but until then, Stick-to-it!