Technology growing faster, mostly children are spending hours stuck in front of phone screens and TV that resulting in their lower productivity, poor socialization. This can even lead to mental illness. Parents are now concerned and worried with the impact that too much phone use has on their child’s overall growth. So, how can Parents assist their kids in reducing the amount of time spent on screens ? It can be more productive, creative, and meaningful things.
1. Make sure your child engage in Outdoor Play and Physical Activities
Outdoor activities can help children to be physically fit. They can play games like hide-and-seek, soccer and cycling. This will also improve their social interaction and teamwork skill. A daily outdoor park visit, a walk around the neighborhood, or simply free play in the backyard can reduce their screen dependency.
2. Develop a Strong Communication Bond between parents and children
Children will more be glued to phones if they feel isolated from family. Try to spend time with your child, listen to their daily chores and what happened with them, share your day as well, and establish an open, friendly communication line. This will help to increase trust and makes them appreciate real-life interactions above digital diversions.
3. Encourage Reading and Creative Pursuits in children
Develop a habit of reading newspapers among children. Make them read storybooks, or magazines to increase their imaginative skills and increase their knowledge. Cultivating hobbies such as painting, gardening, drawing, cooking, or music can direct their energy into something positive and enhance creativity and confidence.
4. Develop a habit of Environmental Awareness
Take your children for a nature walk or camping trips so that you can make them learn more about how important is to protect the environment is. Tell them about climate change and the issues like global warming in simple words.
5. Brain Games and Skill-Building Activities
Avoid screen timings with brain-freindly games such as Sudoku, chess, or crossword puzzles. These will improve critical thinking, problem-solving abilities and make them distract from phones.
6. Mindfulness and diary writing
Yoga, meditation, or martial arts helps children in keeping themselves abreast of their mental and physical well-being. Ask them to keep a diary to write about their day, thoughts, or dreams.
It is not about prohibiting devices entirely but about educating balance. Parents need to set an example for their children by keeping their own phones out of the way during family time and showing to children that life outside of screens can be just as much fun and gratifying.
ALSO READ: Games that help in mind development of children Without Screen Time
Sofia Babu Chacko is a journalist with over five years of experience covering Indian politics, crime, human rights, gender issues, and stories about marginalized communities. She believes that every voice matters, and journalism has a vital role to play in amplifying those voices. Sofia is committed to creating impact and shedding light on stories that truly matter. Beyond her work in the newsroom, she is also a music enthusiast who enjoys singing.
