For one week every March North Shore families are challenged to turn off  their TVs, computers and video screens and explore other non-electronic interests and activities. The 17th annual TV Tune Out Week starts this coming Sunday, March 6 and runs through March 13.

The theme this year is “Create Your Own Adventure.” It offers kids the chance to run wild with their creative energy and families the opportunity to grow closer and experience new activities together.  The kick-off event, called “Sideswipe” will take place Sunday at 3:30 in the Wasburne School gym in Winnetka. The entire week is chock full of events and activities for children from pre-school to 8th grade, including arts and crafts projects, games, sports clinics, science projects, magic shows, treasure hunts, tours and discounts at various North Shore venues. You can see the event guide here.

TV Tune Out Week is sponsored by the Winnetka Alliance for Early Childhood and supported by area schools and merchants. More than 5,500 children from Winnetka, Wilmette, Glencoe, Kenilworth, Northfield and Glenview will participate. The program, which started in Winnetka, has grown exponentially over the years as it has expanded to surrounding communities, but its mission has remained the same: to give families a yearly opportunity to evaluate the role that TV and other screens play in their lives, and to become educated about screen media.

For more information, call the Alliance office at (847) 441-9001. See the TV Tune Out Calendar here.

If you’re up for the challenge, North Shore businesses are here to support you. All week long sponsors of the “holiday” are providing tons of activities for those who want to experience life unplugged.

This year’s theme is “Power on Your Imagination” and the fun kicks off Sunday, March 7 with a performance by the Chinese Acrobats– at 3:30 p.m. in the Washburne School gym, 515 Hibbard Rd., Winnetka.  All week long you can take part in dozens of alternative activities – including acting classes, art projects, treasure hunts, story hours, behind-the-scenes tours,  sports and community service opportunities. Or, you can just enjoy time with your family at home, without the distraction of TVs, computers and video games.  Play board games, read together, bake cookies, or go on a family expedition.

TV Tune Out Week was started in 1995 by the Winnetka Alliance for Early Childhood and has now spread to surrounding communities. Over 5500 children participate in the program, whose goal is for families to evaluate the role TV plays in their lives, to explore other options and to become more educated about screen media.

Ideas for family fun and information about community activities are all  listed in The 2010 TV Tune Out Guide, which is available at participating schools or at various locations throughout the community.  For more information about TV Tune Out Week, visit www.winnetkaalliance.org.

Also see:

• Activities at The Book Stall
• Drop in at The Botanic Garden