March 6-7, 2026
Global Day of Unplugging 2026
A community-wide invitation to step away from screens and step back into real life. In collaboration with Team Unscreen, SOMA families are encouraged to go phone-free (or phone-light), gather in person, and choose connection on purpose.
Why unplugging matters
We live in an always-on culture where attention is constantly pulled in a dozen directions. Over time, that can make it harder to focus, to listen without multitasking, and to feel truly connected. Global Day of Unplugging is a simple reset: one weekend where we practice gathering offline, on purpose.
Connection
In-person time builds belonging. Small shared moments are how community forms.
Attention
When screens fill every pause, we lose the quiet space where focus, creativity, and reflection grow.
Modeling matters
Kids notice what adults normalize. Unplugging together shows that people come first.
New in 2026: The Gathering Effect
Global Day of Unplugging is launching a coordinated research study to better understand what happens when people gather offline, on purpose — and how phone-free, in-person Gatherings relate to connection, belonging, loneliness, social support, and overall life satisfaction.
Global Day of Unplugging is launching a coordinated research study to better understand what happens when people gather offline, on purpose — and how phone-free, in-person Gatherings relate to connection, belonging, loneliness, social support, and overall life satisfaction.
Schedule for South Orange & Maplewood
Choose one activity or make a day of it. All families are welcome.
How to participate (keep it simple)
You do not need a perfect detox day. Choose a time window that fits your family and pick one offline activity you can actually enjoy. Show up for one SOMA event, meet another family, or create a small gathering at home.
1) Plan
Pick one phone-free plan: a walk, a library visit, a board game, a craft, a meal, or a meetup.
2) Host
Hosting does not mean "no memories.."Choose one intentional photo moment, then put the phone away again.
3) Unplug
Start small and make it real. One hour can change the tone of a day. Repeat it the week after.
Quick family pledge (copy/paste):
Our family pledge: We will unplug for ______ and we will _______________________.
About this initiative
Families with further questions explore this video segment that explains the "why" behind unplugging and encourages participation.
Hosting tip: keep phones away during the gathering, and choose one intentional photo moment, if needed.