With technology taking over, it has become common for almost every member in a household to have their own flat screen device.
This could be a tv, a tablet or a mobile phone. During lockdown, it became the easiest source of entertainment and way to keep in contact with friends, not to mention it becoming the primary mode of education.
This increased screen time significantly over quarantine. Whilst there is no judgement, it is important that parents help their children to find that balance again and enjoy time outdoors in the sun.
Here are 5 screen free activities for children to get them started.
Learn a new skill.
Has your child picked up any new hobbies recently? How to shoot hoops? How to paint on canvases? How to decorate cupcakes? A new programme in a foreign language?
These are great ways to get children to occupy their time with something that is beneficial and builds skills. Not to mention it’ll keep them away from their devices for a long period of time.
Read a book
Books can be seen as educational and something that shouldn’t leave the four walls of a classroom. However, every child will love reading so long as they have chosen a genre that they enjoy.
Take them to your local library and allow them to roam the shelves for books they want to read. Look online for some page-turners that will have your child’s eyes glued to the page for longer than you’ll think.
Not only will they develop a love for reading, but their vocabulary and speech will develop alongside.
Learn how to cook
Bring your child into the kitchen and teach them a new recipe. This could start off as them helping weigh out ingredients and helping cut up vegetables.
Most children by the age of 9 are capable of preparing a simple meal alone so show them how fun it can be to get creative in the kitchen.
Do a clear out for cash
There’s always one wardrobe or chest of drawers that needs a good clear out but is always pushed to the bottom of the to-do list due to how hectic life can get.
If the task is simple enough but requires a lot of time, ask your child to spend a few hours rummaging and organising it themselves. Money will always speak so there’s no doubt that they’ll turn it down.
Go for walks
Simple enough but so enjoyable. Take a walk down to the local shops to pick up some shopping and even an ice cream. Visit some local nature reserves for some fresh air and time away from the noisy city life.
Disclosure: this is a collaborative post