Last night I read this article about Digital Overload on the NPR app on my iPad. While it didnt force me to put down my iPad and pick up a paperback, it did get me thinking. Are we a digitally overloaded family?

Both Scott and I work at digital agencies. It is hard for us to avoid technology. In fact, because of our jobs, we are supposed to seek it out in order to stay on top of the latest trends.

My day typically begins on my iPhone or iPad. I click it to see what time it is or to turn off the alarm. Then I use it to check the weather. By that time Logan is clamoring to use myspecial computerso she can play a matching game or watch some Disney movie clips. This is all in the first five minutes of my day.

From there technology and my digital gadgets are never far away. I spend easily 12 hours in front of my computer and when I am not on my computer I am looking at my phone. Then when I go to bed I read a book on my iPad. Really the only time I am not actively using technology is when I am sleeping.

So how much is too much? Early studies are showing that heavy multimedia users have trouble focusing on tasks. The effect on children sounds even more alarming as heavy technology use during childhood may alter their frontal lobe. The research is ongoing so as of now no one knows where the line between beneficial use and overuse should be drawn.

That being said I am going to start drawing some lines of my own.

• No digital multi-tasking at home (no computer or phone use while watching TV)
• No tech at the table (no gadget use while eating)
• 12 hours of screen time on the weekends (this is going to be the hardest one to keep)

I am not sure this will save me and my family from digital overload. I actually doubt that Scott will even agree to these rules. But perhaps, if followed, it will help us to be more engaged with each other and our world