On January 4, the Detroit Dawoodi Bohra community hosted a No-Screen Day, an event dedicated to encouraging children to connect through hands-on activities and real-world interactions.
In an era where digital distractions often overshadow face-to-face interactions, this initiative sought to encourage children to engage meaningfully with their surroundings.
The event aligned with the Dawoodi Bohra community’s global efforts to reduce excessive screen time and mitigate its effects on the wellbeing of children under the age of 15. Studies have linked prolonged digital exposure to various health concerns, including mental and cognitive development issues.
“It was nice to see the kids happy and enjoying themselves when we got there. Putting away the devices definitely had a positive impact,” shared Mariyah Saifuddin, a parent.
From the moment the event began, the energy in the room was palpable. Children immersed themselves in activities as they built, painted, crafted, and played, showcasing a sense of camaraderie and engagement.
A particularly memorable moment was when children gathered in a circle, to brainstorm ideas for a collaborative project. Their laughter and animated discussions were a testament to the power of real-world engagement.
Events like this draw inspiration from the teachings and counsel of the community leader, His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, who emphasizes the nurturing of children with love, compassion, and engagement.
In one of his addresses, he stated,
“What does it mean to be kind to one’s children? It is to provide them with love and compassion and gradually improve their condition. Children’s upbringing is of utmost importance. Your true wealth is your children. When parents raise their children this way, then witnessing their character and achievements will be a source of joy, peace, happiness, and gratitude.”
Farmington Hills Mayor Theresa Rich attended the event, commending the initiative, “The Bohras recognize that children are not only the heart of our families, but also the foundation of our future. This initiative by the community to restore true childhood is commendable.”
She also took part in the act of making roti, a flatbread. While seemingly simple, the Dawoodi Bohras view roti-making as a way to instill virtues of humility and grace in children.
Reflecting on her experience, the mayor said, “On a personal note, I also loved the opportunity to learn how to make roti—a fun and hands-on reminder of the joy found in simple, shared experiences.”
By the end of the day, many parents reflected on the impact of technology in their own lives, expressing a desire to integrate more screen-free moments into their family routines..
As global discussions around screen time and digital wellness continue, events like No-Screen Day serve as a reminder of the simple yet profound joy of human connection. The Detroit Dawoodi Bohra community’s initiative demonstrated that while technology has its place, unplugging—if only for a day—can rekindle the essence of childhood and inspire a more socially productive way of life.
