From Devices to Discovery

Decrease Screen Time and Boost Creativity this Summer

Words by Lifestyle Staff

Summer can be the most relaxing time of year, when the days are warm and long, and kids have extra free time. It’s easy to fall into a routine of unlimited screen time, but just as they benefit from school breaks, they also need brain-breaks from the screen. Not all views on this subject are the same, but most people will agree that it’s important for kids to be active, practice creativity, and engage with friends and family. Finding what works best for your family is key to successful implementation of limiting screen time. Here, we share best practices to consider for kids’ summer break.

ENCOURAGE EARNING SCREEN TIME

Creating a list of activities they need to accomplish each day before spending time on video games or on the iPad, will help decrease screen time and will encourage responsible behavior. Consider adding items like making their bed, pet tasks, going outside, and reading.

LIMIT THE AMOUNT OF TIME

Create a time limit where they are allowed to be in front of the screen each day. Allowing time only in the afternoon will help them find other activities to do during the morning and evening hours. Some internet routers allow you to control access on different devices, as well.

SUMMER BUCKET LIST

Come up with a list of things to do throughout the summer that will create adventure. This will help them overcome boredom and instill a life-long behavior of learning to do new things. Allow them to help come up with the activities, too.

CREATE A PASS SYSTEM

Hand out screen time passes at the beginning of each week and allow them to decide when to use them. This can be in 30 minute to 1 hour increments. The passes can be earned or taken away if they don’t follow through with obligations or expectations.

ACTIVITY IDEAS

• Board games

• Bike track or skate park

• Grow a garden

• Make homemade lemonade / orange juice

• Camp in your backyard, set up a hammock

• Hiking or nature walk

• Create a sidewalk mural with chalk

• Water gun battle

• Make homemade ice cream in a bag

• LEGO™ challenge

• Paper airplane competition

• Art activities: sketch books, paint by number, jewelry making, etc.

• Puzzles and board games