No devices. No screens. Just good old-fashioned fun! For many, it was a first – a week completely unplugged, and the chance for teens to pause, explore and experience life offline.

We held our inaugural Digital Detox Program in Sydney in January 2026, giving teens the opportunity to step away from technology, reset and reflect on digital habits, as they reconnected with their peers in a screen-free environment.

The group had a blast at Teen Ranch, embracing all of the fun outdoor games, workshops and team activities on offer. We saw every young person face their fears and challenges during high ropes, hiking expeditions and rock climbing, pushing through moments of doubt to grow greater resilience. Among the standout moments, we saw teens inspired to try new things, support each other, and walk away feeling proud of what they achieved together.

While technology has many benefits, today’s young people are facing unique pressures in the digital world with excessive screen time impacting their mental health, social and emotional wellbeing. Our Digital Detox Program addresses these challenges, helping teens and their families develop healthier habits and a more positive, mindful relationship with tech. Social media and technology are part of everyday life, so the focus isn’t on eliminating it completely, but supporting young people in learning more intentional ways to use it.

Our fully-funded Digital Detox Program has been running since 2023 and has already helped hundreds of teens improve their screen habits and relationship with technology. By bringing this specialist program to Sydney, we are able to reach more young people and their families, as we offer them the same transformative experiences that extend far beyond the 8-day camp.

After a successful debut in Sydney, we’re already excited for the next round of NSW teens to join us next time for a week of adventure and connection. Stay tuned!

Is too much screentime affecting your teen’s wellbeing? Our school holiday Digital Detox Programs help teens recharge and reconnect. Check out upcoming program dates here.

The ABC’s 7.30 Report featured our Digital Detox Program on 17 July, 2025, and highlighted the powerful impact our program is having on young Australians. The story followed two of our participants through their journey before, during, and after the camp – showing how stepping away from technology can lead to lasting change. It also explored the broader issue of tech and social media overuse among youth, and how programs like ours are providing practical, meaningful solutions.

Thanks to our KYF team for their energy and dedication to helping young people through this program, and for our community who continue to support our mission of changing lives through the spirit of Kokoda.

View the DDP segment on the ABC 7.30 Report

The Kokoda Youth Foundation Digital Detox Program: A Life-Changing Experience for Kids 

Did you know that up to 30% of a child’s waking time is spent in front of a screen? Research indicates that excessive screen time among 5-17 year olds can have adverse effects on their physical and mental wellbeing. In particular, it can contribute to poor dietary habits and weight gain, while also heightening the risk of developing anxiety, behavioural problems, and attention-related issues. 

Our Digital Detox Program is designed to cultivate kids’ awareness of their technology usage and its impact on their relationships with others as well as themselves. By blending mindfulness and breathing techniques with outdoor adventure activities, our program helps children establish a balanced and healthy relationship with their devices. Here’s what some of our graduates had to say after completing the program: 

Jake: “When I first heard about the program, I thought it would be fun and good to try. I had to give up my family, who were on a beach holiday, and I had to give up technology. 
“When I arrived on the first day, I was feeling a bit nervous and excited.  
“My favourite thing was making new friends and trying activities where I had to overcome my fears. If I hadn’t gone, I think I would have missed out on the camping and meeting new people.  
“I see technology differently now. They can be dangerous for you and your brain with all the signals. But sometimes you need screens in your life. So, I’ve learned to use screens less but to still use them more appropriately.  
“I would say to another 12–14-year-old considering attending the program, just have a try of this program because it’s really fun and can be really good for you. “

Harry: “Originally, I didn’t embrace the idea of the program because I thought I was completely under control of my screen time. I had to give up tech for that week, and I also had to leave my family on their holiday. 
“When I arrived on the first day, I was quite quiet when I didn’t know anyone, but as the day went on, I felt more excited and happy that I came to camp.  
“My favourite thing about the program was all the amazing activities, and the way everyone bonded. If I hadn’t gone, I think I would’ve missed out on all the wonderful opportunities and meeting all the amazing people.  
“I see technology differently now, and I try to use it more carefully and in a lot less portions because of all the lessons I learned on camp.  
“I would say to another 12–14-year-old considering attending the program, go because of the amazing things that they would miss out on if they didn’t attend.”

Gabriel: “When my teacher mentioned the Kokoda Digital Detox Program to the class at first, I was a bit hesitant about going because I was afraid that I wouldn’t make any friends or that I would maybe have problems with some of the kids, or they would have a problem with me. So, I was not too sure about coming to the camp. In the week that I was gone, I missed out on the opportunity to hang out with all my friends, and I missed out on limited event things for games or new shows that came out.  
“When I arrived on the first day, my nerves were through the roof. I felt so sick and was so scared about being there because I had no way to use my technology to escape into my own world. Throughout the first day, though, I had already made a lot of friends.  
“My favourite thing about the program was the opportunity to meet a variety of new people and make new relationships. The activities were a huge highlight as well, as it made me challenge myself and push my limitations. The activities also made me feel more energetic as it got my blood pumping.  
“If I hadn’t gone on the camp, then I would’ve been in my comfort zone for years, and I wouldn’t have the courage to talk to new people or to try new things.  
“I see technology differently now. I find that when I got back, things that would take up most of my time would no longer.”

The Digital Detox Program aims to equip young people with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the digital world in a healthy and balanced way. By doing so, we can help prevent or reduce the negative impact of digital dependency on young people’s mental health and promote a more positive and fulfilling digital experience. 

If you’re a 12-14-year-old considering this program, take the advice of these kids and give it a try. You might be nervous at first, but you’ll quickly make new friends and have a lot of fun. And who knows, you might even come away with a new perspective on technology and the world around you. 

Find more information about screen time effects and guidelines for kids HERE!

Digital Detox