Turn Off Week is April 20th-26th
Turnoff Week originally started in 1994, in an effort to motivate individuals to turn off their TV and do something physically active, and even better if that time is spent with family, friends and neighbors. Now that we have much more technology in our daily (hourly?!) lives, this week's TURN OFF WEEK not only includes the TV, but also includes iPods, cell phones, computers (what?! no facebook?!), games, videos...no tweeting allowed!
According to the Center for Screen-Time Awareness (CSTA), an international non-profit organization that has organized Turnoff Week, people spend an average of 4 hours [a day] PLUS another 4 on the computer, iPod, cell phone, games and videos (and this is non-work related!)
Why Turn Off?
Former US Surgeon General Dr. David Satcher said at the Kick Off of Turnoff Week 2001, "We are raising the most overweight generation of youngsters in American history...This week is about saving lives."
Even one of our popular community bookstores, is celebrating Turnoff Week, through offering many great family events, including: arts & crafts, storytime and live performances. And the bookstores are not the only ones jumping on this opportunity; local libraries, churches, museums and other attractions are celebrating!
What's So Great about Turnoff Week?
According to CSTA, "turning off the screen gives us time to think, read, create, and do the things we never have time for. This allows us to connect with our families and engage in our communities. We feel good about ourselves as we grow more physicaly and mentally active."
Plus, Turnoff Week is supported by national organizations including the American Medical Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, National Education Association, and President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. Wow---with so many organizations joining in on this health awareness week, I wonder if some local gyms are offering discounts or no-joining fee days?! Might be something to check into; maybe your community is participating in this awareness week!
What are YOU going to Turn Off?
Now that you know this is Turn Off Week, how do you plan to participate? Are you going cold turkey, or will you start small with no TV? Can you do it for a week, or at least for a few days? I would love to hear how you celebrate Turn Off Week, and if you feel that you benefited in some way (more physical activity, read a book, spent time with the kids) from this great event.
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For more information:
"Center for Screen-Time Awareness (CSTA), formerly TV-Turnoff Network and in an early incarnation TV-Free America, is an international nonprofit organization, providing tools for people to live healthier lives in functional families and vibrant communities by taking control of the electronic media in their lives and not allowing it to control them.
Founded in 1994 by Henry Labalme and Matt Pawa as an environmental organization, CSTA has grown into an agency dealing with diverse issues including obesity, illiteracy, violence and the impact electronic media has on our lives. The organization is dedicated to making information available and putting you in charge of the “electronic tools” so you can use them in ways that enhance your quality of life."