articles

Kids and Technology: Finding the Balance

By Jennifer Baker, Granite Falls NC Mom and MacKid Guest Writer July 23, 2018


Kids love their tablets, a television show can sometimes give us mamas a much needed break, and technology can be an awesome tool. However, how can we make sure that "screen time" does not become "all the time?"

The free time requirements checklist is something we have recently implemented at our house to limit our kids' screen-time, and it's going swimmingly. Here is how to create your own free time checklist for your kids:

  1. Choose several areas or tasks you want your children to spend time on each day. For us these areas are:
    • Reading: This can include looking at magazines, “reading the pictures,” or my favorite, reading together.
    • Arts/Crafts: Coloring, sticker books, painting, or upcycling... the possibilities are endless.
    • Pets: One of our requirements is that the pets are taken care of, including time spent playing with them, and are fed/watered.
    • Toys: Our children play outside, read, and pretend a lot which is great, but rarely play with their toys. Now one of our requirements is that they play with a toy from their room. This could be some sort of building/construction, figurine pretend, or even playing a board game of some sort together.
  2. Make a chart with your child's name and a label of each requirement (may be a picture representation versus a word, such as a book for reading).
  3. As they complete each requirement, instruct your kids to put a check mark next to it.
  4. Once all checks have been acquired, allow technology/screen time.

I have loved what this simple list has done for free time! It is so sweet to see my children reading together or playing a game together without being asked. They often create artwork for family or friends, and their toys are finally getting played with!

Below are some other ideas for striking a technology balance with your kiddos:

  • Make mealtime family time with no gadgets allowed at the table.
  • Create a busy-bag or pack a few things in your purse such as books or crossword puzzles for waits such as appointments or restaurants. The easiest go to option is to play, I SPY!
  • Make playing outside a fun, regular occurrence.
  • Set a routine time to read with kids. Before bed is a great time for cuddles and calming down!
  • Be a good example with your own technology use.
  • Teach your children to be effective stewards of technology. It can be used for so much good!

-----

Related Articles You May Like (from our archives):