The event takes place the week of April 30 to May 6.

Screen-Free Week, formerly known as national Turn-Off TV Week, is sponsored by the Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood. The event is endorsed by the American College of Sports Medicine, the American Clinical Board of Nutrition and the Center for Media and Health.

During Screen-Free Week, Creative Music Center will encourage children and adults to spend less time interacting with electronic devices and more time learning a musical instrument.

“Learning a musical instrument significant benefits — from increasing academic performance to reducing anxiety — that electronic games and TV shows simply do not have,” said Liz Reisman, Creative Music Center owner. “Not only that, but unlike video games and other electronics, the ability to play an instrument is a healthy skill they will have for the rest of their lives.”

According to the association, excessive screen time is linked to poor school performance, childhood obesity and attention disorders.

Ms Reisman said the issue is one close to her heart because, with two teenagers, she knows how difficult it can be to get them to turn off their screens.

“It’s always a bit of a challenge, but I feel it’s one of the most important challenges to take,” she said.

Parents are encouraged to join their children in creating a screen-free home for the week.

“We encourage parents to take part in the effort, along with their children,” Ms Reisman said. “At Creative Music Center, we have many adults who are either getting back to an instrument they used to play or learning a new instrument all together. It’s a wonderful hobby and a proven form of relaxation.”

Creative Music Center was named one of the Top 100 Music Stores in the country by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM).

In support of Screen-Free week, Creative Music Center will offer a buy three get one free lesson package to new customers. To register, contact the store at 203-261-7301.