The holiday season is a magical time, perfect for reconnecting with loved ones, indulging in cherished traditions, and taking a well-deserved break. Have you ever been caught scrolling through your phone during Christmas dinner or responding to work emails in the middle of a family game night? If so, you’re not alone. For many, the holidays have become just another backdrop for endless notifications and screen time. These moments remind us why mindful tech use is so important.

Take Emma, for instance. Last Christmas, she planned the perfect family gathering, decorated a beautiful tree, made home-cooked meals and place a pile of gifts under the tree. Instead of soaking in the moment, she spent half the evening checking her phone for Instagram likes on her carefully curated holiday photos. By the end of the night, her family had shared countless laughs and stories, but Emma barely remembered a thing. That’s when she realized: this year needed to be different.

If Emma’s experience sounds familiar, it’s time to consider mindful tech use during the holidays. By being intentional about how we engage with technology, we can fully immerse ourselves in the joy and connection this special time of year offers. Here are practical tips to help you balance screen time and real-world connections.

1. Set Tech-Free Zones

The dining table, the living during movie time, or the space around the Christmas tree should be designated as tech-free zones. Leave your phone in another room, or better yet, use a decorative box as a “phone jail” where everyone can stash their devices during family activities.

Emma implemented this rule at her family’s New Year’s brunch, and it turned into a fun tradition. The family challenged each other to see who could last the longest without their phone, and the winner got to pick the next activity.

2. Establish Tech-Free Times

Set specific periods during the day to unplug. Mornings, meals, and evenings are great opportunities to put away your devices and focus on the people around you. Communicate this plan with family members so everyone’s on board.

You can decide to make a rule for no phones after dinner. During that time, use it to play board games with your family, tell interesting stories, or simply relax together.

3. Use Technology Intentionally

Instead of mindlessly scrolling, use technology to enhance your holiday experience. Video call distant relatives, create a shared photo album for family pictures, or use an app to track holiday traditions like Santa or festive recipes.

You can use technology to set up a virtual gift exchange for your extended family who couldn’t visit. This has proven that tech can be used to bring people closer especially when used intentionally.

4. Disable Non-Essential Notifications

There’s nothing like a notification ping to pull you out of a heartfelt conversation. Disable social media and email notifications temporarily to reduce distractions. If something urgent arises, people can still call or text you directly.

5. Encourage Offline Activities

Plan activities that don’t require screens. This could include baking cookies, going for a winter walk, or setting up a holiday craft station. These moments foster genuine connections and create lasting memories.

Emma’s family started a “holiday bake-off” where everyone contributed their best dessert. Not only did it become a highlight of the season, but it also brought them closer in a way no screen ever could.

6. Lead by Example

Kids and younger family members often mirror adult behavior. Show them that it’s possible to enjoy the holidays without constant screen use. Be mindful of your own habits to set a positive example.

The holidays are a time to recharge, reconnect, and be present with those we cherish most. Practicing mindful tech use is not about cutting off technology entirely but using it thoughtfully. Like Emma, you can rediscover the joy of real connections and create a holiday season filled with moments you’ll actually remember.

This year, let your phone take a back seat and let the magic of the holidays unfold around you.