Alternatives to Screen Time
A pdf version of this article is also available.
Tablets, smartphones, and other screens are seemingly everywhere. Nearly all of us have become so used to the ease and entertainment these devices provide that we can struggle to find alternatives to screen time.
Although it is not clear precisely how much screen time is ‘too much’, excessive amounts of time spent on screens can be detrimental to adults and to youth – leading to more sleep problems, worse performance at school or work, and spending less time with family and friends. Spending excessive time on screens can also lead to weight problems, mood problems, poor self-image and body image issues, fear of missing out, and spending less time learning ways to relax and have fun!
So, what are some other alternatives we can all try to incorporate in our lives to replace some of that screen time?
1. Outside activities
Research supports that more time spent outside in nature is good for our physical and mental health. Many activities like walking, biking, hiking, playing outdoor games or sports, or even going on a scavenger hunt are good alternatives for staying inside and watching a screen.
2. Inside activities
There are several ideas for doing something inside as a family including playing board games, reading books together, having a dance party, building a blanket/pillow fort, and even taking turns sharing stories.
3. Volunteer activities
Many activities that can be done to volunteer or help others in some way are great for a person’s well-being and sense of purpose. Making care packages for a local shelter, picking up trash in the neighborhood, cleaning out closets and donating items to those in need, visiting with neighbors – especially those that are homebound, and even doing a random act of kindness for someone, are all great examples of activities that avoid screens and also positively impact other’s lives.
4. Arts/crafts and productive activities
Creating items can be so satisfying – whether it is artwork or completing a puzzle. Additional activities in this area include drawing and painting, making jewelry, exercising together, cooking a new food dish, building with Legos, and even practicing relaxation techniques. These are all activities that are fun and also produce something nice to share and help provide a feeling of accomplishment.
Once family members get in the habit of doing other activities besides watching a screen, they will find they are spending more quality time together which benefits them all, especially youth.
Author
Cheri Burcham, Family Life Educator, Illinois Extension
Additional Resources:
- Playing cards with 52 screen free activities – included with your Smart Families Survival Kit
- The Opt Out Family