We are all compelled by social media to reduce our child's screen time strictly. But have most of you asked yourself why that is necessary. Children have a high learning capacity when young, and currently, tech is booming. Follow me on this. Adults struggle to learn web design, animations, and other ways to make money using tech, so why not let them acquire the skills at a younger age?
The big question is, why limit screen time when you can use it to help your child learn the basic skills of their generation? Your child won't grow up to knitting sweaters and seat covers like you did. He'll grow into an era in which computers knit your seat cover, brush your teeth, and clean your house. My point is, with the proper guidance, your child stands to gain a lot from all the screen time.
You can sign him up for coding, web design, and math classes. These are not the only skills your child can learn. Your child will grow up with these fundamental skills and still be a doctor or lawyer. So, before dismissing screen time, please find out how it can help your child.
Nonetheless, here are a few tips on reducing your child's screen time.
1. 1. Engage your child
After school, weekends, and holidays should mainly involve engaging with your child. Give your child full attention by playing with them and engaging them in other activities around the house. But honestly, who has the headspace to deal with four children for the whole summer. You should do it if you intend to cut back that screen time.
2. 2. Be realistic
Seriously, if your children already spend less than an hour of screen time, why cut more time? Secondly, if they are learning essential skills on the computer, why deny them the knowledge?
3. 3. Be accountable
It would help if you led by example. Don't pressure your kids to cut back on screen time and spend most of your time on your phone. That's setting a bad precedence.
4. 4. Create phone-free zones
For example, encourage your kids to leave their phones in their rooms during meal times. The dining area and kitchen become phone-free zones, and your family can bond during those times.
5. 5. Go outside
Occasionally, put down all phones, go outside and take a stroll to increase endorphins. That will boost the happiness, brain function, moods, and physical health of your children and you.
In conclusion, tech isn't necessarily a bad thing. Learn its advantages as well.
