5 Ways To Get Your Kids Off Their Screens and Active

Thank goodness for modern technology! Between my coffee maker, phone and computer I don’t know how I would survive without the advances of technology. The same goes for my kids–television programs, interactive games on the tablet, my 4 year olds favorite music stations on Alexa–fun and educational technological devices are their favorites! These screens can be lifesavers and (when balanced) healthy and helpful.

But when parents and kids start to over use and depend on the screens to control our everyday lives we begin to have a problem, especially with the health of our children. So when we see that screens are affecting our kids a little too much, use these 5 tips to get your child away from screen time and active for a positive reset!

1. Set up a schedule

When there is a set schedule for screen time, everyone will have the same expectations of how the day will go. For example if the tv can’t be turned on until homework is done and they’ve played outside for 30 minutes that day then kids will understand what is expected out of their own schedule as well.

1. Encourage outdoor play

When kids realize there are better alternatives to screen time then technology becomes a healthy tool in your parenting toolbox. Encourage your kids to spend time outdoors every day–the physical and mental benefits are worth it! Play outside together or make the backyard an oasis with the best outdoor toys and activities.

Need some inspiration? Check out this big list of outdoor toys for kids of all ages>>

1. Model It

If you don’t want your kids on the ipad all day then you can’t be on the ipad all day. Parents are the first and best model for their kids so it’s time for us to walk-the-walk and show them how a balanced lifestyle looks. Put down your phone and go for a family walk together or add game night to the weekly schedule instead of vegging out in front of the tv.

1. Do what they like

You got our kiddo to put down the device, now what? Encourage them to play and do activities that they like! Maybe they like to skateboard–go to the skate park. Dancer in your family? Help them create a new routine. The more they do things they enjoy, the less likely technology becomes an issue.

1. Keep it positive

When you take away the tablet as punishment or use computer time as a reward, the more likely kids will associate technology as being better than the alternative. Anything else will be viewed as less desirable. So reinforce the idea that screen time is healthy, in moderation, just as being active is.

Some days are going to be better than others when it comes to kids screen time and for the sake of your sanity, do what you have to do those days. But for the days in between, use these 5 ways to get your kids off their screen and active to encourage the most healthy lifestyle for everyone in the family.

Jenn writes at her blog healthyhappyimpactful.com. She’s a mom of three looking to learn and grow. Check it out if you love helpful tips on health, family, and personal growth.