Disconnect to Connect

Greene County Disconnect to Connect Coalition

The Greene County Disconnect to Connect (D2C) Coalition brings together families, schools, health professionals, and community partners to support the mental health and well-being of children and youth in Greene County.

We believe kids grow best through relationships, play, movement, rest, and real-world connections. Technology can be a helpful tool for learning and communication—but when screens begin to replace these essentials, children and teens may struggle.

Disconnect to Connect is about finding a healthier balance, not guilt or blame.

Why This Matters

Mental health challenges among children and youth were already a concern before COVID-19. Since the pandemic, those challenges have increased significantly.

Research shows that excessive or unbalanced screen use may be associated with increased risks for children and teens, including:

  • Anxiety, irritability, and mood changes
  • Sleep problems, especially when screens are used before bedtime
  • Difficulty focusing, learning, or managing emotions
  • Reduced physical activity and outdoor play
  • Headaches, eye strain, and neck or back pain
  • Fewer opportunities to build strong face-to-face social skills

It’s not just how much screen time children get—it’s how screens are used and what they replace. When screens crowd out sleep, play, movement, or family connection, children’s overall well-being can be impacted.

Our Approach: Balance, Not Blame

Technology is an important part of everyday life and can support education, connection, and creativity. The Disconnect to Connect Coalition does not claim that technology is always harmful or that families need to unplug completely.

Instead, we focus on:

  • Intentional and mindful screen use
  • Clear, realistic boundaries that fit each family
  • Daily opportunities to unplug and reconnect

Small changes can make a meaningful difference.

Greene County Disconnects to CONNECT

Join Greene County Unplugged!

Each year, Greene County observes a Day of Unplugging, from sundown on the first Friday in March through sundown on Saturday.

Greene County Unplugged
📅 Annually on the first weekend of March
🕯️ Sundown Friday to Sundown Saturday

Families, schools, and community groups are invited to take part in a 24-Hour Digital Detox Challenge by stepping away from non-essential screen use and focusing on connection.

Take the 24-Hour Digital Detox Challenge

The Digital Detox Challenge is flexible, voluntary, and judgment-free. Participate in ways that work best for you and your family:

  • Turn off or limit phones, tablets, and gaming systems
  • Play outside, take a walk, or visit a local park
  • Read, create, build, or play together
  • Share meals and conversations without screens
  • Notice how unplugging affects sleep, mood, and focus

You don’t have to be perfect—every unplugged moment counts.

Connect as a Community

Disconnect to Connect is a community-wide effort. Everyone has a role:

  • Families can try screen-free time at home
  • Schools and classrooms can host unplugged days
  • Libraries, parks, and community organizations can offer screen-free activities
  • Workplaces and agencies can model healthy digital habits

Together, we’re creating a community where children feel connected, supported, and ready to thrive.

Greene County Unplugged

(An initiative of the Disconnect to Connect Coalition)

📅 Annually on the first weekend of March
🕯️ Sundown Friday to Sundown Saturday

Visit our announcement page for more information on this event!

Greene County Unplugged Passport

Get your passport at any Greene County Public Library branch, at Greene County Public Health, or through Greene County Parks & Trails.

  • Attend any one of the five listed events; ask the organizer to check off on the passport
  • Turn in your completed passport with your name and contact information by March 13, 2026
  • Be entered for a chance to win a prize basket

Find More Screen-Free Activities

Coalition Members

The Disconnect to Connect Coalition includes:

  • Xenia, Beavercreek, Yellow Springs, and Bellbrook-Sugarcreek Chambers of Commerce
  • Greene County Parks & Trails
  • Mental Health and Recovery Board of Clark, Greene, and Madison Counties
  • Greene County Public Health
  • Greene County Public Library
  • Greene County Educational Service Center
  • Greene County Children Services
  • Greene County Family & Children First
  • YMCA of Xenia