Fifteen restaurants across Sardinia have joined a one-month pilot project designed to encourage families to talk, play and spend time together without screens at the table. The initiative, called “A tavola senza schermi” (“At the table without screens”), began on Sunday.
Participating guests are asked to keep their smartphones and tablets in their pockets or place them in a basket when they enter the restaurant. Families with children receive a “conversation kit” containing games and colored pencils as an alternative to digital entertainment.
The project was developed by Sardinia’s hospitality association together with the island’s children and youth commissioner, Anna Cau. Participation is voluntary, and the restaurants do not impose an absolute phone ban. Exceptions can be arranged, while important calls are expected to be taken away from the table and out of earshot of other diners.
Cau said digital technology needs to be managed carefully, particularly to protect minors from misuse and unsuitable content while helping parents understand both its risks and benefits. Emanuele Frongia, president of the hospitality association, added that removing phones could also help adults engage more directly with one another.
The participating venues include restaurants in larger cities such as the island capital, Cagliari, as well as establishments in smaller communities. Sardinia is also a popular destination for tourists.
Sources: t3n.