Stories

8 Ideas to Reduce Screen Time as a Family and Foster Quality Moments with Your Children

Looking for ways to spend more quality time with your family?

 

 

 

 

 

 

These tips may not be ground-breaking, but they serve as a valuable reminder of the simple yet meaningful ways to connect with our children. By encouraging a variety of activities, we can create lasting memories and enjoy quality time together—beyond just watching a film together.

 

Encourage Outdoor Play
Children thrive when they explore the outdoors. Encourage activities like biking, playing sports, nature walks, and even during winter or rainy days. Fresh air and movement do wonders for their physical and mental health. This is also an opportunity to chat, hear about their day, and have bonding time together. It also helps them get used to the seasons and stay motivated to do things not only when it is sunny and warm.

Arts and Crafts
Spark creativity with painting, drawing, sculpting with clay, or fun DIY crafts. These activities keep their hands and minds busy while fostering imagination and problem-solving skills. They also help with self-expression. Many children stop doing this at some point because they compare themselves with others. You don’t have to be a Picasso to use art as a form of expression—we can set an example as parents and caregivers.

Set an Example
Children mimic what they see. They use adults around them to understand the world and find their way. If we expect them to limit screen time, we should demonstrate healthy screen habits ourselves. Try keeping devices away during family time to set a positive example. Look at their faces when they speak and show them how important it is to give undivided attention to people and tasks.

Reading Time
Create a cosy reading nook filled with age-appropriate books to inspire storytelling and knowledge. For older children, establish reading as part of their daily routine, such as a quiet reading session before bedtime. Get involved but also find time for them to see you enjoying a book.

Music and Dance
Encourage children to explore music by learning an instrument or singing. Have spontaneous dance parties with the whole family—moving to music is not only fun but also great exercise. Encourage singing, being funny, and playful. This will help your children feel accepted and able to be themselves.

Sports, Hobbies, and Educational Activities
Keep curiosity alive with hands-on learning. Try science experiments, building kits, puzzles, and educational toys that make learning interactive and fun. Try to encourage them to play independently so they can entertain themselves when you are busy but also have the freedom to play on their own. Enrol your child in activities like martial arts, swimming, or dance classes—many of these are community-funded. These structured hobbies help develop skills, teamwork, and build friendships while also rooting your children in your community, meeting people, and fostering social relationships in your area.

Social Interaction
Promote real-life connections by arranging playdates, family gatherings, or group outings. Activities that foster face-to-face interaction are essential for emotional growth. Get in touch with your local library and check what activities they have for children. These are usually age-appropriate and foster community while being educational.

Screen-Free Zones and Times
Set clear boundaries with screen-free zones, such as the dining table or bedrooms, and designate screen-free times like during meals or before bedtime. Screens can be really helpful and provide great entertainment—the key is balance and age-appropriate use. Depending on the age of your children, they are developing their language, motor skills, and brains, and we have to be mindful of this.

 

What do you think of these simple ways to foster quality time away from the screen?

 

-

 

(Photo Credits: Kampus Production from Pexels via Canva)