5 Ways To Get Kids Off The Electronics

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5 Ways To Get Kids Off The Electronics

Do your children spend way too much time on their electronic devices?  Children (and adults) are obsessed with their electronics. We use them as a distraction, an entertainment source, and a communication device.  People spend a lot of time in the digital world these days; some would say too much time. While technology is helpful and useful in many ways, it’s good to take a break from the electronics and encourage your children to do the same.

  1. Go outside: Parents can take their children outside to do a multitude of activities. Children can enjoy playing games, reading, or helping you with yard work outside. It’s important as parents to model the behavior you want your children to follow, so that means parents should spend time outside also to show your children how fun the great outdoors can be!
  2. Don’t use “electronic time” as a reward: Some parents use time on electronics as a reward for their children. This can put too much emphasis on electronic devices. If you have a limit on electronic use for your children, be firm in that set time and don’t give in or give extra time as a reward. Rules for electronic use should be consistent and fair. Find another way to reward your children for behaving that doesn’t involve a screen.
  3. Encourage them to play interactive games or activities: Screens seem to have taken over our lives. Remind your children of the other games that they can play that don’t involve any type of electronic device. This could mean teaching them how to play a board or card game, or making a craft with them.
  4. Don’t use electronics to distract your children: Many parents turn on the TV to distract the children while they do the dishes, or give their kids their phone while they are in the grocery store. Instead, organize other activities to keep your children safe and busy while you do house chores. You could even encourage them to help you clean and have time to play a game with them after. For example, if you have to clean up the kitchen after a meal, you could pull out coloring books or building blocks for them to play with until you are finished.
  5. Don’t use the TV as background noise: Some parents leave the TV on all day as background noise in their home. Instead, if it’s warm, crack open the back door or play some music to use as background noise instead of turning on the TV. Make sure also to turn off the TV during meals to encourage conversation over lunch or dinner time.

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