(Share this month’s tip with your kids and teens!)

'Analog hobbies' are coming back for a reason. (Hobbies that don’t use technology.) Using our hands and minds improves mental health, is intellectually stimulating, and you get to show off the cool things you've made to friends and family. ;)

During the dark winter months, it's easy to reach for devices for entertainment. While there's nothing wrong with relaxing with a movie or keeping up with your favorite sports team, too much screen time means missing out on physical activity, connection with friends and family, and developing new skills or unwinding with an offline hobby.

Studies show that offline hobbies are linked to significant improvements in mental and physical health, including reduced anxiety, lower blood pressure, and may even help you live longer. When we unplug for a while we also improve our focus and creativity. Without constant digital stimulation, the brain returns to a more balanced rhythm.

Did you know that daily reading for pleasure in the U.S. dropped by over 40% in two decades? Screen time is crowding out hobbies that used to be part of everyday life. This winter is your chance to reclaim one.

What will you try this winter? Here are ideas to get you started:

• A daily walk in nature
• A new board game
• A puzzle
• Crochet or knitting
• Learn to play an instrument
• Journal
• Draw or paint
• Paint your room
• Learn to fix a car
• Learn woodworking
• Cook a new recipe
• Learn photography skills (try a real camera!)
• Try a new genre of book or read your favorite comic book

Experiment with a variety of activities and eventually something will feel very "you." This will become one of your go-to activities when you're stressed, tired, or just need to unwind.

Next Action: Challenge your kids to pick one activity from the list to try this month, or choose something to try together as a family and model the offline hobbies you want to see.

Remember: Analog hobbies aren't just about reducing screen time—they're about building skills, reducing stress, and discovering what brings joy beyond a screen. Here’s to a winter full of fun quiet escapes.