With each passing day, our society becomes more and more dependent on screens. For a long time, it was mainly television that was the primary concern. However, as technology continues to advance, children are finding themselves in front of smart devices much more frequently, whether it is their parents’, or they have simply acquired one from a young age.
The question becomes, how do you break a child of a cycle that includes endless hours of YouTube and games? The answer may just be found in one of life’s most classic options – the puzzle. Whether it is 1000 piece puzzle frames containing hours of fun and challenges, or easy puzzles focusing on a variety of possible themes, it is time to prioritize bringing this back to the table. But, what is the best way to ease your child into less screen time? WebMD focuses on some of the following tips.
Ideas To Break Endless Screen Time
Gradual – One of the most important things you can do is roll things back gradually. Telling your child they suddenly have to go from limitless screen time to one hour a day isn’t going to accomplish anything. Instead, focus on setting a limit, and then reducing things gradually over time.
Schedule – Do you want to make sure your child starts on those 1000 piece puzzle frames sitting around the desk? Work on scheduling things so that your child knows when to get off the phone, and when it is time for other activities.
Lead by example – Are you on your smart device just as much as your children? If so, they are simply following what they see, which means it is on you to cut back on your screen time, too. Maybe you can make the joint commitment to spend less time on the couch, and more time working on some tough puzzles together.
Cover – It may sound silly, but covering the television when it isn’t in use can keep things out of mind. Just seeing the temptation less often may be enough to cut the urge, and allow your family to enjoy more quality time together.
It is never too early to start a child on critical thinking tasks. After all, before your child is 10-years-old, most brain cell connections are being made. And, there is a whole world of 1000 piece puzzle frames out there, just waiting for your family to start filling in the missing pieces. The beautiful thing is there are so many themes out there for any interest type. So, whether your slugger wants a sports puzzle, or your explorer wants to try a Polar Express game, you will never be limited. Encourage moving their development forward by stepping back into the classic world of puzzles.