Devices make life much easier and now our desire for comfort and convenience is becoming a problem. We’re slowly becoming addicted and so are children which is quite concerning. Studies have found that the average child spends around four and a half hours a day behind their screens and only 40 minutes outdoors. The concern is that they’re not exercising their minds and bodies nearly as much as they should which could have adverse effects on their development. We already know that there’s a link between excessive use and mental health issues. Effects include depression, anxiety, and brain fog. If screen time is something that you’d like to reduce in your household, we have 5 screen-free activities for you below.
This post was written with the help of a sixth form in Essex.
Go On an Adventure
There’s lots to discover outdoors. You can go visit your local zoo, farm, or just step outside to explore the wildlife that surrounds us. It’s important for children that they build a relationship with nature. It teaches them to protect and nurture it which as time goes by, is becoming increasingly important.
Soft Play/Activity Centre
Another place that you can go for a day out is a soft play centre, or trampoline park if your children are a little older. They’ll be kept active with all that there is to do, and they will have the opportunity to build on their gross motor skills.
Make Crafts
Crafting’s therapeutic and more importantly, will keep your child off their screens. They can exercise their creativity and have fun creating whatever they want.
Team Sports
If there’s enough of you, you will be able to enjoy a game of football or rounders outside. You don’t need to leave the house. All you will need are balls and stumps for the perfect set up.
Board Games
If your child’s a gamer, why not introduce them to board games? They will have the chance to put their skills to work in the real world and it can be something that you do together as a family.
