A campaign to take a break from the relentless digital world

After the successful first edition, they will be hosting a second edition on November 20 from 7.30 pm to 8.30 pm. “The movement is gaining momentum with #GadgetFreeHour garnering over 10.4 million impressions on social media already. This year, the #GadgetFreeHour will bring the much-needed break from our intense online activities over the past six-odd months. This is an initiative to encourage families to have fun together and discover the joy of being with each other,” says Nalina Ramalakshmi, founder and managing director of ParentCircle.

In this one hour, families will disconnect from their gadgets and spend time with their children in a fun way. “It is imperative that parents set aside some time to reconnect with their children and family members without the distraction of gadgets. Parents and children should spend quality time together — this boosts children’s’ confidence and helps them succeed. Children should feel that strong connection with the family and it crucial in today’s world,” adds Nalina.

One Indian survey reported that during the lockdown and post that phase, each family member in India spent over 26 hours per week on an average on their phones, managing work and home, and scrolling through entertainment apps. The Tamil Nadu Government Education Department has extended its support and has shared the #GadgetFreeHour message by urging teachers and parents, along with their kids to take a break from their hectic online schedules to spend that one hour with their families.