Friends,

Thanksgiving. The word itself conjures images of warmth, laughter, and a table laden with food, surrounded by loved ones. But for many of us, it also brings a quiet tension: the glow of phone screens competing with flickering candlelight.

I’ve been there—watching a cousin scroll Instagram while my aunt tries to recount a family story. It’s awkward. It’s familiar. And this year, I want to do something about it, and that’s why I created…

From Screen Time to Family Time

The truth is, tech isn't the enemy. It runs our schedules, helps with homework, and even plans things like our ArtPrize family day. But Thanksgiving is different. It’s sacred. It deserves our full presence.

So here’s a simple challenge I’m inviting you to try:

🔹 The Phones-in-a-Basket Challenge

As guests arrive, have a decorative basket by the door or at the table. Invite everyone to drop their phones into it. Rule: no phones until dessert is served. Or later, if you’re brave.

It’s a small act with big meaning: Tonight, we’re here—fully—for each other.

Beyond the Basket: Filling the Silence with Something Better

Putting phones away is the start. What comes next is what makes the moment.

✨ Conversation Starters That Actually Spark Something

Try these at the table:

• What’s one thing you’re grateful for that surprised you this year?

• What’s a tradition from childhood you wish we still had?

• If you could instantly learn one skill, what would it be and why?

• Tell us about a time you tried something new and what happened.
  

Get people talking about life, not just the news.

🌈 Old-School Fun: Board Games, Cards, Charades

No batteries required. Just laughter, light competition, and actual connection. My family dusted off a deck of cards recently—it was hilarious. Try it.

✈️ Airplane Mode Rituals

Make switching to airplane mode a family ritual before the meal. Symbolic? Yes. But it communicates something powerful: My attention is here, now, with you.

This isn’t anti-tech. It’s pro-intention.

From Our Blog: Why This Matters More Than Ever

If you need reminding why presence matters, read this:

“When a Chat Thread Turns Dark: How Parents Can Respond to AI, Screens, and Teen Distress”

It’s about a teen who died by suicide after interacting with an AI chatbot. Heavy stuff. But it highlights what’s at stake: if we’re not our kids' safe space, something else will be.

Also check out:

“How to Use AI for Homework Without Increasing Screen Time”

Use AI to build thinking, not just to outsource it. Practical tips for staying intentional.

🌟 Done with Playing Small? Make 2026 Your Breakthrough Year! 🌟

Let’s be honest: are you truly living the life you envision for yourself and your family? Or are you ready to take command, rewrite the script, and achieve something extraordinary?

Join me at the Goal Achievers Summit in sunny Orlando, December 29-30!

This isn't your typical event. This is two days packed with insight, actionable strategies, and the kind of energy that sparks real change. Imagine:

• Dozens of world-class speakers (yes, I’ll be one of them!) sharing blueprints for success in every facet of your life—from family harmony to business growth.

• Thousands of practical ideas you can implement immediately to build the year you’ve always wanted.

• A community of driven individuals all committed to making 2026 their most impactful year yet.

Stop wishing and start doing. Your family deserves your best self. Grab your ticket and join us for an unforgettable reset!

You owe it to your family to bring your best self into 2026.

✨ AI Gifts That Amazon Can’t Deliver

I’m offering custom-made AI gifts this holiday season. These aren’t "add to cart" gifts. These are crafted with your stories, your people, and your purpose:

🎵 Original songs built with AI — you give me the story, I turn it into music.

🎨 AI-generated portraits and illustrations based on your vision.

📚 Personalized bedtime or family stories featuring your kids, pets, or legacy moments.

🧠 Private 1:1 family sessions where I teach you and your kids to make your own.

Want to make something unforgettable? Send an email to [email protected] or go HERE TO BOOK YOUR SESSION NOW! But don’t wait too long — these are made by me (not mass-produced by bots).

Have a beautiful, connected, and screen-light Thanksgiving.

I’m truly thankful for all of you.

Warmly,
Warren S.
 The AI Dad