Dollar Academy, Clackmannanshire, pupils pledge not to use electronics for a week

The youngsters have unplugged, pledging not to use electronic devices. The purpose of the initiative, Dollar Unplugged, was to encourage children to amuse themselves, reconnect with the world around them and live and engage creatively with friends as well as family in ways which did not involve digital devices.

In art, PE and music classes, teachers focused on activities children can enjoy on their own, or with friends, with no special equipment or lengthy preparations.

Science educators took the kids to float boats in the burn and thanks to a Creativity Award, outside experts led children in outdoor skills, circus trickery, street dance and Pilates.

Pupils have also been baking, learning new card games, practising origami and calligraphy skills and playing table tennis. They have also learnt old playground games as well as games from all over the world.

Of course, regular teaching and learning was carried out too. Mrs Morrison, assistant rector and head of the prep and junior schools, said: “IT usage has continued as planned, as it is an important part of learning when it is carefully controlled and directed.

“However, we will be encouraging talk, debate and creativity in school time and with homework. Technology is a necessary and beneficial part of our lives, but it is important to maintain a balance so, for one week only, we want to encourage them to do something else.”

Dollar Academy also encouraged parents to join in to help their children embrace the “digital detox” by taking on alternative activities at home.

Each child received a pledge card and earned house points for their days free of digital technology.

To follow up, a theatre company will be visiting to do a cyber safety themed show for prep pupils and talks for juniors.

Mrs Morrison added: “It has gone absolutely brilliantly, it feels like the best thing we’ve ever done.”

“Everyone has participated very, very enthusiastically in all activities. Feedback from parents has been hugely positive – children are trying out their new skills at home and asking to bake, build dens, play cards etc.

“They report how tired they are at the end of each day and how easily they have gone to bed and to sleep each night.”