Getting Real with Shadra Bruce
There seems to be a misconception that children need the latest and greatest to be entertained. With phones, tablets, video games, and other electronics to distract the newer generations, we might be surprised at how enjoyable the simple things can be.
It’s important to teach your kids that they do not need to be entertained by electronics at all times. Limit TV time, video games, and phone time (texting, talking, skyping, etc). It may be frustrating to your kids, but disconnecting is important for everyone. Unfortunately, your kids won’t learn anything if you set limits for them but not for yourself. You need to set the right example. Dave and I disconnect – we turn off our laptops at the end of the work day; we take time away from our phones, and while we love to play Mario Kart (we have a real rivalry going) we limit our play to holidays and weekends as an example to our kids.
In fact, we only allow video game time on the weekends for the kids, and electronics have to be turned off an hour before bed. My sister actually collects her kids electronics at night. Every household is going to have different rules. However, limiting electronics gives children a chance to explore the world and perhaps even a different side of themselves. This also opens up space for family time, which older children may grumble at now but will appreciate later.
You won’t believe how quickly kids learn to entertain themselves doing other things when they aren’t connected all the time. Your kids might actually go outside and play. (Yes, it’s something people still do). Kids can read, draw, sing, dance, whatever it is they enjoy that does not involve electronics or media. As I write this, Anika is reading a book and Parker is playing his guitar. It’s lovely.
