Screen time is typically thought of as a time when children aren’t physically active, but it doesn’t have to be. While many parents put limits on screen time, there’s also a way to turn passive viewing into active viewing. Parents can ensure their children are getting recommended levels of physical activity by using screen time as a tool to promote active play for young children. Here are a few ideas on balancing active play and screen time policy:
1. Make Movie Moves
Make your next family movie night into a fun fitness challenge by pairing on-screen activity with movement cues. Did a character get in a car? Laugh out loud? Answer the phone? Start cooking a meal? Pair any of these common on-screen happenings with an engaging activity: jump like a frog for 30 seconds, run in place, or hop like a bunny. To keep motivation high, let children make the rules for this one, and be a good role model by participating in full!
2. Dance it Out
No matter where you are when you hear your favorite song play, you may find yourself dancing, even in your seat. The same principle applies at home! Take turns searching for just the right bop to get your living room dance party started. Use music streaming apps or YouTube to find your family’s favorite tunes. Connect with your child by curating a dance playlist that you all love. Then, try out the latest TikTok dance or improv your own freeform choreography while you’re moving to the beat.
3. Actively Relax
Active screen time doesn’t have to be loud or carried out at full speed. It can also be a calming aid for transitions between home and school or playtime and rest. Check out apps like Cosmic Kids for videos on yoga and mindfulness, or search YouTube for an abundance of guided kid-friendly yoga routines.
4. Get Up and Game
Each year there are more and more active video games out there designed specifically to get children up and moving. Making sure popular physically active games like Just Dance, Zumba Burn it Up!, Mario Kart Live, or Mario Tennis Aces make it into your child’s rotation of favorites is a great way to promote healthy routines that your child will be motivated to complete. Many of these games have multiplayer options, too, providing the opportunity to connect and increase quality time with family members. While a bit of friendly competition is often enjoyable, be sure to emphasize intrinsic values when playing together like having fun, improving skills, and being creative.
The Gardner School Keeps Students Active
It’s important to our students’ mental and physical health that we incorporate physical activity every chance we get. From indoor and outdoor playtime to enrichment activities like karate or yoga, The Gardner School incorporates movement in a variety of ways. To learn more about our approach or to schedule a tour, please reach out!