1. Establish the rules before you arrive…and keep to them
This means in every eventuality – whether your kids are screaming for your phone or tablet because they want ‘down time’ (I mean, really?) or whether you want that break from their screaming (justified). Whatever the reason, a rule is a rule. Tablets and phones are extremely addictive and take the joy out of human interaction – so, get your family talking again, and put down that devilish technology!
2. Think about the entertainment
Not having the reliance of games or videos on YouTube means that you need to be a bit more imaginative when it comes to entertaining the kids. Going out for dinner? Take a set of colouring books and pens to keep them busy. Got a long journey ahead? Think of some family games you could play together. Basically, look back on your own childhood and try and take inspiration.
3. Don’t use them yourselves
Yes, it may be difficult not to use your phone AT ALL, or to not check your itinerary / tickets / bookings. Going on holiday means you need access to your digital memory. But, use your tablet or phone only when necessary. Set an example by avoiding skimming through your Facebook feed while you’re all together, or even before you go to bed. Children will learn by example so if you want them to be more communicative, you will have to be so too.
4. Choose to have an active holiday
Lounging by the pool may be relaxing for you – and may be fun for the kids for a couple of days, especially if you’re staying somewhere which offers a kids’ club – but simply laying down for a whole week is not going to cut it for everyone. Think of activities you can enjoy as a family, such as visiting Esplora or the Malta National Aquarium in St Paul’s Bay. These will keep your young ones entertained and mentally occupied.
5. Take a few good books
Some kids naturally like to have colouring books or fairy tale stories with them wherever they go, while some don’t. But, encourage it by showing them you also have your own reads – let them see you open a good story. In this way, they’ll understand that diversion does not only reside in staring, fixedly, at a flat screen.