Why a “Tech Vacation” Might Be the Healthiest Thing Your Teen Does This Summer — And How Broadreach Makes It Happen

By: Bethany Remington, Broadreach HQ April 14, 2025 Parents

Like the rest of the world, we’ve been talking nonstop at Broadreach HQ about Netflix’s new miniseries, Adolescence — a haunting portrayal of how deeply social media can impact teen identity and mental health. The dark psychological drama highlights the unsettling impact of technology and social media on young people–how it can isolate, manipulate, and radicalize teens. The show is sparking conversations about how entwined social media has become with adolescent life: the pressure to be perfect, the need for constant validation and the subtle (or not-so-subtle) toll on confidence, self-worth, and real-world connection.

And if you’re a parent watching, you probably couldn’t help but wonder: How do we protect our kids and give them a break from all this? 

At Broadreach, one of the most powerful answers is simple: Take a tech vacation.

A True Reset from the Digital World

Our programs are immersive, adventurous, and — yes — tech-free. That means no phones, social media, or distractions from the experience happening right before you. At first, giving up phones might feel daunting — but it quickly becomes liberating. For many teens, it’s the first time they truly unplug and remember what it feels like to live just for themselves, not for a digital audience.

And the best part? They don’t miss it as much as they think they will. In fact, what we hear most from returning students is, “I didn’t realize how much I needed that break.”

Don’t just take our word for it; here are some comments we received from students after their Broadreach trips:

“I loved not having my phone. Now that I have my phone, I miss the moments where I would just hang out with my friends without screens.”

— Brian, 2024 Broadreach alum

“It didn’t bother me at all and made people have fun since they weren’t phone zombies.”

—Gretchen,  2024 Broadreach alum

“It is so nice getting a break from technology, and I know the trip would have been different in a negative way if we had our phones.”

—Cadence, 2024 Broadreach alum

Real-World Connection Beats Screen Time, Every Time

One of the most powerful outcomes of an unplugged Broadreach trip for teens is the sense of genuine connection that develops between students. Instead of bonding over memes or Snapchat streaks, they bond over real moments — learning to sail together in the Caribbean, diving alongside marine biologists, cooking meals as a team, navigating challenges, and laughing during late-night karaoke sessions.

These connections run deep because they’re built on trust, shared adventure, and face-to-face communication — things that aren’t always prioritized in a world of curated feeds and filtered photos.

Confidence That Isn’t Measured in Likes

Today’s teens face relentless pressure to present perfectly curated versions of their lives online. With social media, self-esteem rises and falls with every like and comment. At Broadreach, confidence comes from something else entirely: achievement, growth, and resilience.

Whether earning a scuba certification, giving a group presentation, or navigating a new culture, Broadreach students are constantly stepping outside their comfort zones and realizing their capabilities. The result? Confidence that isn’t based on appearance or approval but on experience.

A Perspective Shift That Lasts Beyond Summer

After an unplugged Broadreach trip, students return home with more than new skills and incredible memories. They come back with perspective. They’ve seen what life looks like when fully present — and that awareness sticks with them.

For many, it sparks a shift in how they use technology in the future. They’re more thoughtful about screen time, more aware of how social media affects them, and more empowered to take control of their digital habits.

If Adolescence left you wondering how to help your teen disconnect — and truly thrive — this is your sign.

A “tech vacation” isn’t just a nice idea. It might be the healthiest thing your teen does this summer.

With Broadreach, a tech break becomes even more powerful: An adventure that sparks growth, connection, and lasting confidence.