As someone who’s deeply passionate about digital health for children, I’ve spent a lot of time talking about screen time, online safety, and helping young people develop healthy relationships with technology. Through my advocacy work, I’ve seen how the digital world can overwhelm kids—affecting their sleep, attention, self-esteem, and even their mental health.

But somewhere along the way, I realized something important:
Digital wellness isn’t just for kids. It’s for all of us.
We all need to increase our awareness on digital habits and practices. It’s not just something we should just talk about—it’s something we need to live.

From Advocating for Others to Self Reflection

As I encouraged families, schools and communities to be more intentional with tech, I started turning those same questions inward:

• How much of my screen time is intentional vs. automatic?
  
• Do my digital habits reflect the life I want to live?
  
• What would happen if I unplugged more often?
  

What I found was powerful: when I took small steps to reduce screen distractions, set clearer boundaries, and choose more time in real life and less online. I felt more calm, connected and focused. No longer felt a constant need to do 10 things or better yet feel the fight for my attention from devices and mental pressures or deadlines. I felt lighter and sort of free. It made me realize I was in a self induced prison that had an open door, I just had to walk through the door. 

This experience and realization reminded me of something essential:
Health isn’t a static state—it’s a journey.

Just like physical or mental health, our relationship with technology needs consistent care, reflection, and realignment.

There’s no perfect balance—but there is progress, (which is different for everyone!!!) But progress, no matter how big or small is what matters. 

Why Spring Is the Perfect Time to Reset

Spring is nature’s invitation to begin again.
It’s when we open windows, clear the clutter, and make space for what truly matters. Why not do the same for our digital lives?

And here in the Midwest, springtime is especially powerful. The days grow longer, the weather finally starts to warm up, and nature begins to bloom all around us. It’s a perfect time to shift out of digital autopilot and reconnect with the world beyond our screens.

Getting outside isn’t just refreshing—it’s scientifically good for us. Just 20 minutes of sunlight and movement can increase serotonin and dopamine levels, improving mood, energy, and mental clarity. Fresh air, green spaces, and real human connection offer exactly the kind of reset our overstimulated minds need.

Let spring be your reminder to:

• Take walks without your phone
  
• Watch a sunset instead of a screen
  
• Trade doom scrolling for planting and play in dirt, riding a bike, or simply being still and feeling the wind blow. TAKE IT IN!!!
  

Let this season guide your digital spring cleaning—a chance to pause, realign, and grow with intention.

A Message for All of Us

My journey began by advocating for kids’ digital health. But what I’ve discovered is that digital balance is something we all have to work on, continually. It’s not a one-time fix. It’s a practice—a path. And the more we commit to it, the more joy and clarity we find.

If we want to guide the next generation toward a healthier relationship with tech, we have to model what it means to live with intention in a world that constantly pulls us online.

So this spring, embrace the longer days and warmer air as your invitation to reconnect—with yourself, your people, and nature. Realize perfection is not possible but simply start and take one day at a time. Remember it’s a journey! 

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🌿 Unplug. Reflect. Move. Grow. Together. 🌿

Questions or want additional support with your or your family’s digital health and safety then check out Kids Digital Health Hub or tune into Screen Guardians podcast by Katie Longhauser