How to Go Phone-Free on Christmas Day
(Without Losing Your Mind)
If you’re craving a Christmas where the memories aren’t filtered through a screen, here’s a practical guide to a family phone-free Christmas. Because as much as we berate the kids for being addicted to their phones, we are often just as bad, (but it’s acceptable because we are just booking your tennis lessons).
Step 1: Announce the Plan in advance
Springing a “no phone” rule on Christmas morning is risky, expect mutiny by midday. Instead, announce your plan ahead of time. Gather the family and say something like:
“Right, team! This year, we’re giving ourselves the ultimate challenge, each other’s undivided attention. Phones are taking a Christmas holiday, too.”
Step 2: Create a “Phone Bed”
Set up a central place for everyone to “tuck in” their phones, maybe a box wrapped in festive paper or a stocking marked ‘Do Not Disturb’. Make it part of the ritual:
“Goodnight, little phones! See you on Boxing Day!”
For those reluctant to part with their devices, remind them that it’s not forever. It’s a challenge: a single day. The world will cope.
Step 3: Have a Plan for “Boredom”
Phones often serve as our boredom busters, so pre-empt the complaints with a jam-packed Christmas itinerary. Suggestions include:
Morning: A Christmas walk, you can bribe participants with hot chocolate halfway.
Afternoon: Charades, board games, or an epic family quiz (questions about family members are always a hit).
Evening: Dig out old photo albums, sing karaoke carols, have a Christmas rave.
Step 4: Replace Screens with Scenes
If someone feels tempted to “just check something,” have a replacement response ready. For instance:
“I was going to check the weather.” Look out of the window and declare it “crisp.”
“I need to Google how long to cook the turkey.” Dust off the family cookbook (or ask your nan).
“What if I get a really important message?” It can wait.
Step 5: Model the Behaviour
Children aren’t the only ones glued to their screens. If you want them to stay off their devices, lead by example. Children do what they see, not what we say. That means no sneaky email checks or Instagram posts about your picture-perfect phone-free Christmas.
Step 6: Focus on Connection
Remind everyone why you’re doing this. It’s not about punishment; it’s about presence. Instead of TikTok dances, teach the kids a classic family jig. Instead of scrolling, share stories about past Christmases (especially the ones where things went hilariously wrong).
Step 7: Set Exceptions (With Strict Boundaries)
Let’s be realistic. If you have loved ones abroad you may want to speak with them. Use an iPad or laptop to do a Zoom or FaceTime call, rather a phone call.
Step 8: End with Reflection
At the end of the day, gather the family to talk about what it was like to be phone-free. Did anyone notice they were less stressed? More present? How did it feel to connect without interruptions?
Celebrate the success (even if it wasn’t perfect), and maybe agree to make it a tradition.
Why It’s Worth It
Going phone-free for Christmas isn’t about shaming technology; it’s about reclaiming the magic of the moment. The laughs, the chaos, the way time slows down when you’re fully present.
After all, no app can capture the warmth of a shared laugh where you can see each other’s eyes! So, this Christmas, ditch the screens, and give your family the greatest gift of all: you.
Happy Christmas and good luck! Please let us know in the comments if you plan on joining in and how it goes!