4 Helpful Ways to Limit Screen Time for Kids

If you’ve ever tried to pry an iPad out of the surprisingly strong grip of a toddler, you’ll understand the need to Limit Screen Time for Kids. So much of our lives are dictated by screens, whether it’s smartphones, televisions, consoles or tablets. They’re in our homes, in schools and usually at the top of all Christmas and birthday lists, but the dangers of too much screen time for our little ones is well documented.

So, how do you convince your little ones to put down their devices and enjoy the great outdoors instead? We’re not magicians, but we do have a few tricks up our sleeves when it comes to helping to Limit Screen Time for Kids. 

4 Top Tips to help you Limit Screen Time for Kids

Create a ‘tech-free’ zone

One of the most effective ways to get gadgets and devices out of your little one’s hands is to create areas in the home that are ‘tech free’. The dining table is a great example of a technology-free zone, ensuring everyone can focus on their meals and enjoy family conversation without the distraction of a screen.

Another option would be to create a reading nook in the living area or bedroom where children can do and relax and unwind with books or crafts. To really establish these zones, create homemade signs to remind everyone of the rules of going ‘tech-free’, this could be an activity in itself as you enjoy a sign-making crafternoon. 

Make the outdoors exciting

Outdoor Play is an excellent and obvious choice to help you Limit Screen Time for Kids. If your outdoor space is uninspiring, it’s no wonder your kids will want to spend their days lost in an imaginary world. Outdoor play is essential for your child’s development, helping to teach key motor skills in little ones as well as providing exercise and interaction through playtime. Whatever the size of your outdoor space, it’s easy to add toys and equipment to get your kids excited about heading outside.

Swingsets, slides and inflatable pools are all great fun during the summer months, while mud kitchens and sandpits will keep little hands busy and minds active all year round. If you’re limited on outdoor space, look for toys that you can take with you to a park or playground. Ride-on toys such as quad bikes and go-karts are great options for exciting outdoor adventures, regardless of their age!

Set parental controls

Sometimes it takes more than game suggestions to get your children away from their screens. Parental controls are a great way to monitor and Limit Screen Time for Kids and the amount of access your little ones have to the internet and television, with sophisticated settings to help you create a bespoke plan of action to suit your child. Not only will this help limit the amount of time that your child spends on their devices, it also adds a valuable level of security to give you peace of mind when they are online. 

Teach good habits

It’s all well and good telling your children to put down their devices, but if you’re sat scrolling through your phone or iPad, they’ll soon start to copy. Of course, everyone enjoys a Netflix binge or a quick scroll through Instagram or Facebook, however, try and limit this to when your littles ones are in bed. If you do feel the urge to pick up your phone during playtime, switch to a game that includes the adults too. 

While exposure to some technology is great for children’s development, with these tips you can hopefully get them excited about stepping away from the screen! At Outside Play, we’re the UK’s leading supplier of quality kid’s ride-on toys and garden equipment, with something to suit all ages. Shop the full range today! 

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Want to learn more? Visit out website: www.outsideplay.co.uk