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School holidays often come with a familiar tension for parents: more free time, more requests for screens, and a quiet sense that things can tip too far, too quickly.
If you’ve ever thought “we should probably cut back a bit” - but felt overwhelmed by the idea of going all-in - you’re not alone.
The good news? It doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing.
A low-tech holiday isn’t about removing screens entirely. It’s about creating a bit more space for real life to happen - and doing it in a way that feels realistic, flexible and shared.
Start with a gentle reset
Rather than introducing a list of rules, it can help to begin the holidays with a simple reset moment.
This might look like:
- Naming a shared intention as a family
- Talking about what everyone wants more of these holidays
- Keeping it positive: more time outside, more time with friends, more time together
It doesn’t need to be formal. Even a short conversation can shift the tone.
Aim for rhythm, not restriction
One of the most helpful shifts is moving away from strict limits and towards a loose daily rhythm.
For example:
- Mornings: slower, low-tech, or screen-free
- Afternoons: more flexible
- Evenings: time to connect as a family
When kids know what to expect, everything tends to feel easier - for everyone - and parents get to say "no" less.
Focus on what you’re saying yes to
When screens aren’t the default, there needs to be something else ready to take their place.
Instead of focusing on what you’re limiting, try building a simple “yes list” or guide calendar:
- Things to do at home
- Places to explore on different days
- People to catch up with or invite over for a play date
It doesn’t need to be elaborate. A few visible, easy options can go a long way.
Make it easier on yourself
Environment matters more than willpower.
A few small tweaks can reduce friction:
- Keep devices in a shared space or out of sight
- Set up a simple “phone basket” during key times
- Charge devices outside bedrooms
These aren’t hard rules - they’re gentle nudges that make low-tech moments more likely.
Expect boredom (and don’t rush to fix it)
Boredom is often the moment parents feel most tested.
But it’s also where something valuable begins.
When kids have space to sit with it, boredom can lead to:
- Creativity
- Problem-solving
- More independent play
It might feel uncomfortable at first. That doesn’t mean it’s not working.
Plan a few anchor moments
You don’t need to fill every day to create a great holiday.
Instead, think about a handful of “anchor” moments:
- A picnic or day trip
- A movie night
- Time with friends or extended family
Having a few things to look forward to adds shape to the holidays - without over-scheduling them.
Let them see you doing it too
Kids notice what we do more than what we say.
A low-tech holiday works best when it feels shared:
- Putting your own phone away during key moments
- Being present in conversations and activities - maybe even bringing along an old school camera!
- Modelling what balance looks like in real life
Not perfectly - just consistently enough to be felt.
It’s easier when you’re not the only one
One of the biggest challenges for families is feeling like they’re doing this alone.
When kids know their friends are also spending less time on devices, everything shifts. It feels normal. It feels social. It feels doable.
This is exactly where Wait Mate can help.
By connecting families within the same school and year group who are choosing to delay smartphones, Wait Mate creates strength in numbers and helps like-minded families who share the same values to find eachother. Kids aren’t the only ones without a device - and parents aren’t the only ones holding the boundary.
It turns what can feel isolating into something shared.
Small shifts, real impact
A low-tech school holiday doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.
If there’s a little more:
- Conversation
- Movement
- Creativity
- Connection
…then something important has already shifted.
Want more ideas?
If you’re looking for practical tools, conversation starters and simple ways to shape your holidays, you can download a helpful guide here.
And if you’re thinking longer-term about how to reduce pressure around devices, joining a community of like-minded families can make all the difference. Pledge now.
Because this is easier - and more enjoyable - when it’s done together.
Thanks to Screen Sanity for collaborating on this resource.