6-8 hours.

That’s the average screentime for children between 12-15. Mobile media consumption has increased by two hours since 2015.

Unfortunately, we have left our children no alternative.

The world has changed. The city is constantly shrinking. Skyscrapers have slowly replaced parks. Roads are clogged with traffic. We are unwilling, and above all, scared to let our children go out. Phones and television screens have replaced the world outside.

There are ways to fix this. Let’s find out how. 

Why screen time?

Mobile media has revolutionised the world. We can read a book, watch a movie – all through our phones. Accessibility has increased. When there is excess of accessibility, there is excess of ease.

That can be dangerous.

A high screen time results in diminished motivation. This leads to lack of social skills, irregular sleep and a need for isolation. Moreover, there is limited physical activity, which is not ideal for growing children.

Screen activity for children should be limited to productive activities. Such as studying, video-chatting, or co-watching under the supervision of parents.

Boost Creativity

We have often heard the saying that an idle mind is a devil’s workshop. Therefore, it is necessary to engage children in productive activities. 

Trade the phone for a paintbrush. With a piece of paper and a few colours of paint, let the magic unfold!

It doesn’t have to just be painting. It can be learning something new like crocheting or weaving.

Many young adults and children today are pivoting towards crochet as a screen free activity.

The wonderful thing about practising art and crafts is that it can be done without worrying about talent. The true purpose lies in boosting creativity.

Arts and crafts activities also improve motor skills. You may even unlock a new talent along the way!

Take up Challenges

When was the last time you played an instrument? Or learnt the rules on a board game?

Children love music. A rhythm can transcend age. For children, music operates on an emotional level.

Encourage children to take up an instrument – an acoustic guitar, or a keyboard. Learning an instrument is a challenging task. One that will surely invigorate them to give up on their device.

A board game is an exciting and educational endeavour. It is a family-oriented activity guaranteeing a blend of strategy, fun and learning.

Board games can range from classics such as carrom and Ludo, to Scrabble and Pictionary.

Get Imaginative

Anything can be a game if you try hard enough.

A broken pencil? It can be a wand.

Old bedsheets? You can use it to make it a fort.

An empty carton? You can use that for a DIY foosball arena!

Einstein once said: “Imagination will get you anywhere.”

Imagination is not like entertainment. It is an active force. It allows us to stretch our boundaries and exercise our minds. Imagination helps us to exceed our potential. 

Once we can overcome small barriers, all the world’s a playground.

Beyond the screen, and beyond our imagination.