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How To Replace Screen Time Or How To Engage Child Without Tv

This blog post is a guide for parents on how to engage their child without relying on screen time. It covers topics such as the effects of excessive screen time on children, alternative indoor activities for all ages, and tips for creating a stimulating environment for play and learning. By following the advice in this post, parents can foster their child's creativity, imagination, and cognitive development while building a stronger bond with them.

How To Replace Screen Time Or How To Engage Child Without Tv

Screen time has become a common concern for many parents, and for good reason. but the excessive use of screens can have a negative impact on a child's development and overall health. However, finding alternatives to screen time can be a challenge.

In this blog, we will discuss some tips and alternatives for parents who are concerned about their child's screen time.

Understanding Screen Time Guidelines

  • The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no screen time for children under 18 months

  • Exception: Video chatting with family members is allowed

  • Children 18-24 months should have limited screen time with high-quality educational programming

  • Children 2-5 years old should have no more than 1 hour of screen time per day

Tips For Keeping Infants Safe While Watching Television

  1. Turn off electronic devices before bedtime:

  • Limit your child's screen time by turning off electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime.

  • This will help your child get a better night's sleep and prevent them from using screens to avoid sleep.

  1. Be a good role model:

  • Set a good example for your child by limiting your own screen time.

  • Avoid using screens as a way to avoid spending time with your child.

  1. Encourage physical activity:

  • Engage your child in regular physical activities like sports, dancing, or playing outside.

  • This is essential for their development and a great way to engage them without screens.

  1. Choose age-appropriate educational content:
  • When it comes to screen time, choose age-appropriate educational content that teaches new skills, promotes creativity, and encourages critical thinking.
  1. Monitor what your child is watching:

  • Monitor what your child is watching on TV or other electronic devices to ensure it's age-appropriate.

  • Discuss what they're watching with them and use it as an opportunity to teach them new things.

  1. Engage your child in other activities:

  • Encourage your child to engage in activities like reading, drawing, playing board games, doing puzzles, or cooking together.

  • These activities help them develop new skills and interests and provide quality time together.

  1. Schedule outdoor activities:

  • Get outside and enjoy nature with your child by going on hikes, bike rides, or playing in the park.

  • These activities promote physical activity and develop a love of nature.

Alternatives Options To Watching TV For Babies

  1. Reading:

Reading books and looking at colorful images can help stimulate a baby's brain and improve language skills.

  1. Playing with toys:

Interactive toys, such as stacking blocks or shape sorters, can improve hand-eye coordination and problem-solving skills.

  1. Outdoor activities:

Taking a walk, playing at the park, or exploring nature can provide fresh air, exercise, and new experiences.

  1. Music and singing:

Listening to music and singing along can help babies learn new words and develop rhythm.

  1. Sensory play:

Activities such as playing with water, sand, or playdough can help babies develop their senses and improve motor skills.

  1. Art and crafts:

Encouraging babies to create art with safe materials such as finger paint or crayons can help them express themselves and improve fine motor skills.

  1. Interactive playtime:

Playing with parents or siblings through games like peek-a-boo, hide-and-seek, or make-believe can help babies develop social skills and learn to interact with others.

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