I am 28 years old, and according to science, my prefrontal cortex has been developed for three years now. For your Psych. 101 refresher, the prefrontal cortex plays a crucial role in our decision-making, impulse control, goals and planning for the future. Scientists say that our brains are fully developed by age 25. This is on my mind (no pun intended) in light of this year and the ways daily life has changed, especially in regard to technology. I wish I could say that I have spent more hours reading a book than scrolling through Instagram posts and (dare I say) TikTok videos since the start of 2021…
The reality is that most of us have spent more hours glued to screens than interacting with others this year. Technology in our daily lives has become essential, whether we like it or not. I have noticed my reliance on technology more than ever, and have to make intentional decisions to cut myself off (thank goodness for my developed prefrontal cortex!). I can only imagine how our teens and kiddos are experiencing this dependence on screens.
Parents, I am sure you all have had to enforce new technology rules this year, and have fought hard (or maybe given up) for the cause. We salute you and are here to remind you that this season will pass. And for girls heading our way this summer, one of the benefits of camp will be the 100% pure, bonafide technology detox. Pretty soon the Instagram likes will be replaced with big hugs (masked of course), Tik Tok replaced by live Airband, and Zoom playdates replaced with Friendship Circle- and we cannot wait!
Some of our Junior Counselors agree that one of the best parts of camp is a break from technology:
One of my favorite things I’ve learned is how to not be addicted to my phone. Whenever I tell my friends to write to me because I won’t have my phone for a month, they think it is the worst thing in the world, but it is actually one of my favorite aspects of camp. All your time isn’t sucked away scrolling for hours on your phone. It’s refreshing to be able to spend real time outside and with your friends. -Lizzie
It is great to have a break from technology. It is like you are in a bubble. Camp is a happy place where you do not have to worry about anything! –Louise
Have a great week Illahee family! We hope you can find some time to un-plug!
-Gardner