…how to get kids outside and moving!
Ready to manage screen time for kids during remote learning? Here’s how!
We’re all fighting an (often losing) battle with screen time, and with many kids remote learning right now, it’s harder than ever to get a break from the computer screen. I don’t know about your kids, but mine get screen fatigue. During breaks in online learning, sometimes they also need a break from the screen.
Start by fighting fire with fire: download an app that helps you battle screen time usage. Here are two of my favorites:
Moment screen time tracker:
Moment encourages kids to cut screen time by tracking just how quickly it accumulates. Even kids are surprised when they see how much time they spend online. Right now, most screen time is crucial for school, so instead of using Moment as ‘proof’ for punishment or change, use it as a tool to talk to kids (and even commiserate with them) about how much screen time is necessary right now. Celebrate days with less screen time by going on a family hike or picnic.
UnGlue Kids:
This app works by breaking screen time into chunks, with ‘tasks’ required between uses, such as a pre-determined chore around the house. Parents could alternatively use a a time bank or require kids to accumulate steps in order to earn more screen time.
Once you’ve successfully separated your kid from their screen, what next?
Here are 20 quick and easy off-screen options to utilize during breaks in online learning:
- walk the dog once around the block
- set up a relay race for the kids around the house (they can stop after completing a set number of laps together)
- shoot baskets in the driveway
- cue up the 7 Minute Workout app or Lazy Monster app and call out moves for the kids
- color in a coloring book
- work on Lego, a puzzle, or building blocks
- send kids to get the mail
- learn a new skateboarding or rollerblading trick
- build a paper airplane and fly it
- play a musical instrument (kazoos count!)
- learn a new recipe together and bake in the kitchen
- have fancy tea time
- organize a family arm wrestling contest
- give each kid a chore to complete
- take five minutes for stretching or gentle yoga
- make fruit smoothies
- learn origami
- create an art project
- play twister, Simon Says, or another movement-based game
- read a book out loud
Have other ideas for getting the kids off the screen during school breaks? Share in the comments!
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