by Krystle Hernandez

Created on: April 08, 2009   Last Updated: April 26, 2009

There is no doubt about the fact that we are living in the age of technology. With MySpace, Facebook, the Internet, video games, televisions, and iPods, it can be rather difficult for parents to find ways to get their children to disconnect from these sources of technology. Although technological advances have certainly benefitted society in a number of ways, it is also important for individuals to take time to revel in the natural world around them. But, how exactly are we supposed to pull our kids away from their TV and computer screens? If you want your kids to learn the importance of disconnecting every once in a while, consider the following tips for keeping your children unplugged in a high-tech age.

Books

One great way for kids to unplug is to read. Parents should make an effort to teach their children about the importance of reading from an early age. Reading to your younger children will not only help them develop their reading and communication skills, it will also help them to establish and maintain a bond with parents. As children grow older, they will also be more likely to recognize how rewarding reading can be as a habitual activity. Parents should encourage their children to read by establishing a set "family reading time." Whether it is for half an hour every evening, or for a couple of hours throughout the weekend, set a rule in your home that all electronics (computers, TVS, and radios) should be switched off for a set amount of time so that all members of the family can read in peace and quiet.

Alternatively, you and your children can join a local book club, or establish a family book club of your own. Choose a book to read weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or whatever fits your schedule. Then, hold a meeting for all members to share and discuss their thoughts about the book you selected.

Parents can also encourage their children to read by taking them to the local library or to bookstores. Many bookstores will frequently feature book signings where authors read passages from their latest books and often spend time answering audience members' questions. Taking your kids to these sorts of events can help spark a lifelong interest in reading that will benefit them in an age that is predominately focused on technological mediums.

Exercise

Exercise is crucial to maintaining a healthy, happy, and balanced lifestyle. From an early age, children should be taught the importance of exercising. No matter how much they want to spend time browsing the internet,

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