How do we encourage kids to play outside in more physically engaging activities?
These days, with parents and children on their handheld mobile devices and using the internet, everyone is staring at a screen. Instead of trying to pry the video game controllers out of your children's hands, take a step back.
Learn more about the facts about screen time and how to offer your kid something more exciting to do than play video games or watch YouTube.
Facts About Screen Time
According to the American Academy of Children and Adolescent Psychiatry, children and preteens spend an average of four to six hours per day using screen devices. On the same spectrum, older teenagers use their devices for up to nine hours daily.
These devices include phones, tablets, TVs, computers, and gaming consoles. While device use is necessary for school and social life, parents tend to be concerned when their child does not want to do anything else.
Otherwise, detrimental behavior and traits may be established, including avoiding schoolwork or doing poorly with socialization. As a parent, you are already doing your best to encourage healthy behaviors, but we want to help you go further.
How to Reduce Screen Time
The key to reducing device use is strategizing when and how your child uses them. If they need a laptop for school and homework, monitor their activities during homework hours. If they are using the computer to watch videos instead of doing homework, that is a problem.
Ultimately, screens should not be a distraction, and activities must be directed when using them. When your child is showing signs of aggression or depressed behavior while they are playing video games or watching videos, then you need to do something differently.
Ways to Use Playgrounds More Efficiently
Return to your roots and get back in touch with nature by encouraging your child to go outside to play. Churchich Recreation sells all sorts of playground equipment that allows you to get children off of indoor devices and outside.
Optimize their time outdoors by selecting equipment that goes a step further. Here are some tips on how to pick the right playground setup for your child. This will help you understand what you can expect in your final playground design and overall expectations.
Tips for Designing Playgrounds
- Choose safe playground equipment with a theme that coordinates with your child’s personality or interests. Go with a pirate ship playground for someone interested in the ocean or pirates. Playground equipment can serve double duty as a storytelling backdrop for puppet shows or a setting for a scavenger hunt.
- Customize a playground to include sports in some way for children who like soccer, football, etc. Have a net attachment on the playground where your child can use the equipment to practice kicking or swinging.
There are many directions to take when developing an outdoor play area for children who need more to do. The goal is to provide your child with a stimulating and healthy activity.
Buy New Playground Equipment Today
At Churchich Recreation and Design, we are your outdoor recreation partner for getting kids playing outside. We have a variety of equipment pieces and designs of playgrounds that will stimulate your child’s interest in the great outdoors.
Let's discuss your next project, contact us today!