We had to make a new rule at our house:
No devices at the dinner table.
We’ve always guarded our family time around meals. We’ve always strived to avoid dinner around the TV. Sure, there are exceptions, like pizza and a movie. You know, fun stuff like that.
So when we began to feel screens creeping into our normal meal times, we had to put an end to it. Everyone is following along and there are consequences to any violators. I think the key to our success, is that we acted on it before it became “normal.”
For some families, however, perhaps something like the Pepper Hacker would be a worthwhile investment for a device-free dinnertime:
[Video via YouTube]
Amazing, right!?!
The technology—I get it. What really blew me away was some of the responses!?!? (Believe me, I am counting my blessings. This never happend to us—phew!)
Like all new forms of technology, I think it can take a little time for everyone to figure out where it does and doesn’t belong—as well as what is and isn’t appropriate.
Chris wilson says
Clever idea! I love going out with friends and setting a “first person to touch their phone pays for the meal” rule, kind of similar purpose. One thing I decided to do recently after hearing someone on a podcast recommend it is setting do not disturb to start when I get home from work, that way straight after work I’m out of the work and contactable mindset. I love the VIP feature in iOS to let through those truely essential messages but I’ve needed this since one of my new colleagues has decided that my personal email address should be use to contact me whenever/whereever!
Eric Dye says
That’s a great tip!
KC says
We don’t allow mobile devices at the table, but will watch the occasional movie. Especially on Friday nights.
I can see how desperate times call for extreme measures. The novelty of the Pepper Hacker is definitely cool, but proactive parenting can mitigate the need for it as well.
If you’re kids do not listen to you, the mobile device is merely the method, not the problem.
However, if a little tech hack eliminates distractions and helps connect a disconnected family, I can’t argue with that.