By Nanny Cryssie
A recent study by the University of Wollongong Australia stated that children under two years old are recommended to have no screen time, and for children aged 2–5 years, the suggested maximum is one hour of screen time per day. The less, the better.
Did you know that screen time tends to stimulate the brain rather than help it self-regulate? Increased exposure in the early years can lead to ineffective coping strategies, developmental delays, behavioural issues, difficulty concentrating later in life, limits on their intrinsic imagination, masking behaviours causing delayed dysregulation, and an inability to cope with boredom.
Here are my top strategies for making your days screen free:
Books
Have them ready to go; in the car, bathroom, bedroom, playroom, dining table, everywhere! Take every opportunity to read with your child. My favourite “no screen time” themed book is The Screen Thief by Helen Docherty.
Something for their hands
Give them something to occupy their hands. Always keep one of the following in your nappy bag and in the car: a teddy, calm bottle, colouring book, busy book, felt toys or a mini storybook. The list is endless, really. We love using the I’m with Kids tray in the car.
Get creative
Do something together that builds their curiosity and strengthens your bond; think baking cookies or building a cubby house with Make Do tools.
Embrace the outdoors
As much as you can, get outside. Go for a walk to the playground, explore local bushland, take a trip to the zoo, kick a ball outside, have a picnic lunch in the sun, or go puddle jumping on a rainy day.
Pretend play
Get down into their world and embrace the silly voices and imaginary creatures. Use their interests to set up quick activities like sensory bins or felt toy worlds — the more into it they are, the longer they’ll stay engaged.
While technology offers numerous benefits, it is increasingly essential for parents and caregivers to support children in establishing a healthy balance with digital environments. These 5 engaging activities are simple and effective ways to keep the kiddos engaged while their brains grow and you simultaneously combat those negative links to screen time use. And remember, have fun with it!
Crystle Range is an early childhood nanny, children’s book author and illustrator, and a play space designer. Giving her a unique take on family life, early years learning and play, and community resources. She loves supporting young families and small businesses to find their village.
