A survey by the American Academy of Pediatrics shows that more than 70% of parents admit to using screens as a tool to manage their daily routines.
Many parents use screens not because they think it's best, but because they lack other ideas to keep their kids engaged. However, while screens are convenient, they aren't always the healthiest choice for child development.
Parents Need Free Time, but Kids Need Movement
It’s completely normal for parents to need their own time. The reality is, not every parent has the energy or time to constantly engage in active play with their children. Yet, kids naturally crave movement. They are wired to jump, climb, and explore.
“Active play is crucial for children," says Dr. Sarah Murphy, a pediatric physiotherapist. "It builds motor skills, improves coordination, and boosts cognitive development — things screens simply can't provide."
Active Play Solutions: A Win-Win for Parents and Kids
Instead of feeling guilty about screen time, create an indoor space that encourages independent, active play. Here’s how:
- Set Up an Indoor Playground: Use adaptable toys like climbing triangles, balance beams, and indoor swings to create a dedicated play area. These toys promote physical activity, helping kids develop motor skills and learn to play independently. "Parents don't always have to be playmates; a stimulating play environment empowers children to explore on their own," says parenting coach Laura Greene.
- Offer Exciting Alternatives to Screens: Choose toys that are naturally engaging, like indoor tunnels, sensory mats, and balance boards. A study by the National Institute of Child Health found that children prefer active toys over screens when presented as fun and challenging options.
- Offer to engage in meal cooking process: encourage your kid to wash weggies or mix salads.
- Invite into laundry process: give the kid to match and roll socks, while you do laundry.
- Use your imagination for offering other interesting tasks: Ask to fill the dish washing machine with dishes or invite to pasta jevelry game - give different pasta pieces and thread for making necklaces or bracelets.