Screen-Free Holy Week Challenge for Homeschool Families

Rediscover Faith, Family, and Stillness Without Screens

Introduction: Why Go Screen-Free During Holy Week?

Holy Week is a sacred time in the Christian calendar, marking the final days of Jesus' earthly life—from His triumphant entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday to His resurrection on Easter Sunday. However, in today's hyper-connected world, this week often looks no different from the rest—filled with screens, scrolling, and distractions.

Going screen-free during Holy Week isn’t just a digital detox—it’s a spiritual invitation. It’s a chance for families to pause, reflect, and reconnect with each other and with God. Especially for homeschool families, this challenge offers a unique opportunity to turn ordinary learning into extraordinary faith-filled living.

The Research: Why Screen-Free Matters

Studies from the American Academy of Pediatrics and Common Sense Media highlight that too much screen time is linked to reduced sleep quality, increased anxiety, and weakened family connections. Meanwhile, time spent away from screens:

• Increases mindfulness and creativity

• Improves face-to-face communication

• Strengthens family rituals and faith practices

Taking even a few days off screens has been shown to significantly reduce stress and boost overall well-being—especially in children.

 The Challenge: 7 Days of Screen-Free Activities

Here’s a suggested day-by-day guide for a Screen-Free Holy Week designed for homeschool families:

🌿 Palm Sunday – Celebration & Creation

• Activity: Make your own palm branches or garlands.

• Family Devotion: Read the story of Jesus’ triumphal entry (Luke 19:28–44).

• Reflection: How can we welcome Jesus into our lives today?

💧 Holy Monday – Acts of Service

• Activity: Do a simple good deed—clean a neighbor’s yard, cook for someone in need, or write thank-you notes.

• Family Devotion: Reflect on Jesus cleansing the temple (Matthew 21:12–17).

• Reflection: What do we need to “clear out” from our hearts?

🌺 Holy Tuesday – Nature Walk & Prayer

• Activity: Go on a nature walk and collect symbols of new life (leaves, flowers, rocks).

• Family Devotion: Read parables Jesus taught in the temple (Matthew 21–25).

• Reflection: Where do we see God’s beauty around us?

🕯 Holy Wednesday – Silence & Stillness

• Activity: Set aside one hour for silence and personal prayer or journaling.

• Family Devotion: Read the story of the woman anointing Jesus (Mark 14:3–9).

• Reflection: How can we honor Jesus with our lives?

🍞 Maundy Thursday – Family Foot Washing

• Activity: Reenact the washing of feet and share a simple meal.

• Family Devotion: Read John 13:1–17.

• Reflection: What does true humility look like?

✝️ Good Friday – Cross Craft & Reflection

• Activity: Create a family cross using twigs or recycled materials.

• Family Devotion: Read Luke 23:26–56.

• Reflection: What does the cross mean to you personally?

🌅 Holy Saturday – Waiting & Hope

• Activity: Plant seeds or create resurrection eggs.

• Family Devotion: Talk about waiting and trusting in God’s promises.

• Reflection: How do we wait in hope even when we can’t see the outcome?

🎉 Resurrection Sunday – Celebration & Renewal

Break your fast from screens and celebrate with a family vlog, photo collage, or digital letter to God reflecting on your journey. This is a time to rejoice—He is risen!

Tips for Success

• Involve kids in planning the week’s activities.

• Replace screen time with board games, baking, and crafts.

• Leave phones in a “Sabbath basket” during the day.

• Journal your thoughts and growth daily.

• Invite extended family and friends to join!

Final Thoughts

This Holy Week, give your homeschool family the gift of presence. When screens are put aside, hearts open. What you gain may be far more powerful than anything a device can offer—a deeper relationship with Christ and a stronger family bond.

Are you ready for the challenge? 💛