Screen-Free Holiday Camps: Why Unplugging Matters for Children

As a mum to an 11-year-old, I see these challenges every day. Like many parents, I've had conversations about screen time, negotiated limits, worried about the amount of time spent online and questioned whether we've got the balance right.

It's not always easy.

Screens are designed to be engaging, and for children growing up in today's world, they're often a huge part of how they socialise, learn and relax. That's why I don't believe the answer is to remove technology altogether. Instead, I believe it's about creating healthy boundaries and ensuring children have plenty of opportunities to experience life away from screens too.

How much screen time is too much?

It's a question the UK Government is now exploring too. New guidance on screen use for children aged 5-16 is expected later this year, with a focus on helping families navigate smartphones, social media, sleep and wellbeing.

Experts are increasingly concerned that excessive screen use can take children away from activities that matter most, including:

• Physical activity

• Creativity and imaginative play

• Social interaction and friendships

• Sleep and wellbeing

As both a parent and the founder of The Strings Club, this is a topic I'm incredibly passionate about.

When I launched The Strings Club in 2012, my vision wasn't simply to create another Holiday Camp. I wanted to create positive childhood experiences that helped children build confidence, make friendships and create joyful childhood memories through the joys and benefits of music.

That's why our award-winning, 5★ rated Holiday Camps are proudly screen-free.

At The Strings Club:

• Children do not use screens during the day

• Mobile phones are stored safely away until collection time

• Activities focus on creativity, music, friendship and play

• Outdoor games and active workshops are encouraged every day

Instead, children enjoy interactive guitar, violin or ukulele sessions, creative workshops, energetic games and opportunities to make new friends.

Over the past 14 years, I've seen countless children arrive feeling nervous to our Holiday Camps and leave feeling more confident, connected and proud of themselves.

In a world where screens are becoming increasingly difficult to avoid, I believe children need opportunities to switch off, be creative and simply be children.

Because childhood should be filled with music, creativity, friendship and adventure - not spent staring at a screen.