Step Away From the PlayStation

Step away from the PlayStation! Other great ways to have fun without gaming.

Is it really important to give your brain a break from electronics? Scientists believe that too much screen time is bad for you. You don’t get enough exercise, you aren’t spending time with friends and family, you might not sleep as well, and even your eyesight can be affected.

Plus, when you spend a lot of time on your devices you miss out on other activities that are more fun.

How much time do you think you play video games, use a computer, tablet, or smartphone or spend watching TV, in a week? You might be surprised. For the next two weeks, keep track. The first week, every day record the hours you spend on each. The second week, cut down the amount you spend and use that time to do other activities.

Here are a few things you can do instead:

Sheet Art

Create a life size mural. Ask an adult for an old sheet or if they could buy one from a thrift store. Gather different paint colors, foam brushes, paint brushes, paper plates or cups, and your imagination. Lay the sheet out in the backyard on the grass, a table or a deck and paint your masterpiece directly on the sheet. Have your friends join in and enjoy what you create together.

Race Day There are many ways you can race from one side of the yard to the other: one legged, three legged, backwards, crab walk, fastest, slowest, relay. Gather your friends and take turns calling out the race style. Try it blindfolded, with hands or legs tied, or carrying something without dropping it, or in a potato sack. Give out awards at the end of the races.

Catching Fireflies It’s fun to catch fireflies (or lightning bugs), but you have to act like one. They are easy to find—just look for flashing lights under low-hanging trees or in grassy or marshy areas. Turn off any outside lights—so the fireflies won’t be confused. Grab a flashlight, a net, a jar and a buddy. Have one person hold the jar and another use the net. When you get close enough, catch your fireflies and place them in the jar. Make sure you use a clean, clear jar with a lid that’s been pierced with holes to let in air. Place a moistened paper towel on the bottom for humidity. Be careful catching fireflies, they are fragile and make sure and let them go after a day or two.