From Screen to Green

Once upon a time, children’s days were measured in tree climbs, scraped knees, and the number of frogs they almost – but not quite – caught. Fast forward to today, and many of those adventures have been swapped for glowing rectangles and endless scrolling.

Research tells us that while screens can spark curiosity, too much screen time is linked with rising anxiety, shorter attention spans, and less sleep. On the flip side, time outdoors – digging, building, exploring – boosts creativity, strengthens resilience, nurtures wellbeing, and even improves academic outcomes.

At Lobethal Lutheran School, we know that healthy children limit screen use. We also know that nature play isn’t just fun – it’s necessary. Through our Beyond Outdoor Learning program, we’ve seen firsthand how time spent outdoors builds resilience, creativity, and emotional wellbeing. Children who climb trees, build shelters, and explore the bush aren’t just playing – they’re growing.

Earlier this year, through our partnership with Encounter Youth to design workshops supporting students in managing screen time, we heard a clear message from parents –We need help.

Now, with the December 10 social media ban for under-16s fast approaching, and with mounting research about the dangers of excessive screen use, many families are asking – “What do we do next?”

We believe this moment is a gift – a chance to reset, a chance to reclaim childhood.

The #ScreenToGreen Campaign

This is bigger than one school. #ScreenToGreen is our call to families, schools, communities, and organisations across Australia – and even the world – to join us in rewriting the story of childhood.

We want to spark a movement where whole communities rediscover the joy of green time.

The campaign begins with our free book, From Screen to Green, but it doesn’t end there. Over the coming months, we’ll be sharing stories, resources, and challenges that make unplugging not just possible, but joyful. Imagine families from Lobethal to London all saying yes to more nature and connection.

We don’t just want to tell children to put their devices down.
We want to give them – and their families – something better to pick up.

Download your free copy here: https://beyondoutdoorlearning.com.au/screentogreen/

We welcome families and communities to join us in making the shift and share your adventures with the hashtag #ScreenToGreen – tag us and inspire others – together, we can make a difference.