The new rules say that there are no rules of screen time. That is because kids need technology and it is not only games and entertainment now but also studies and research. But the experts do recommend taking a break from these devices and unplugging regularly to keep a balanced lifestyle. It helps with their health, social interaction and taking proper rest. It is very important to put the devices and social media aside for a while and indulge in natural fun activities to reconnect with real life.
We and our kids are used to holding a smartphone in our hands at all times that we miss it after two seconds of putting it down even when there is nothing going on. We find it hard to unplug. That is why it is necessary that parents and kids work together to take digital breaks and observe mindful, healthy activities. Take a look at these three great ways your kids can unplug. These tips also contribute to a lot of family time.
1. Weekly game night
On weekends, gather the whole family and have a game night together. Go old school with board games. Take out the forgotten ones from the store room or get new cooler ones. Play living room hockey or maybe a dancing game. It all depends on you and what the kids love. Don’t worry about making a mess after all it is the weekend. You can also clean up together which is also device free and great way to get moving. If you make it a tradition, kids would start loving the digital break.
2. Daily talk out session
Every day before going to bed, in the afternoon or whatever time is convenient for the whole family you can have a talk out session. It is when everyone tells their story or it could be a made up story (great for imagination) or just what happened at school. If it is not possible for the whole family, parents can do it individually with the kids. But I suggest everybody do it together because other than unplugging it also kids in expressing themselves better.
3. Digital tool to limit screen time
This is more of an orderly way to limit screen time but surely an awesome way. If you feel like your kid is getting addicted to a game or hangs out on social media too much. If they don’t show up on the dining table or if you are busy at the office mobile phone parental controls are a great tool. You can lock their devices and get them to take a break in this time. See FamilyTime which is a fine digital tool that offers:
- Efficient monitoring features to check the device usage
- App monitoring functionality with efficient app blocking
- Built-in and customization screen locks
- Automated system handled from parent’s device
- Multiple accounts and schedules
Other than that you can monitor your child’s digital activities in a detailed manner using the same app. So, get a free trial of app from the buttons below:
If you find unplugging hard, try these ways, these will help. I suggest using all of these in combination as the first two make up for fun and mobile phone parental controls helps you maintain order. Either way you get to keep their screen time limited and that is the goal. To give them a healthy, balanced and secure lifestyle.