Interior Savings encourages children to unplug and play

Photo: Contributed

This week marks the 8th annual Interior Savings Unplug and Play, Family Literacy Week, which runs from January 23-30.

Free family activities are scheduled across the Okanagan as part of the celebration which asks families to celebrate screen-free play and learning for families with young children

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many of us to spend even more time watching computer, TV and smartphone screens and this event is designed to remind everyone to unplug from digital devices from time to time. Interior Savings Unplug and Play and Family Literacy Week helps families engage in traditional, interactive, creative and fun family activities.

“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.

Interior Savings is encouraging everyone to check out the free activities planned for the week, including ice skating, take-and-make crafts, a story walk, and library story-times.

“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.”

The Public Health Agency of Canada, indicates that screen time for children younger than 2 years is not recommended. Children aged 2 to 5 years, should limit screen time to less than 1 hour per day.