As the temperatures rise and summer vacation kicks into high gear, it’s the perfect time to encourage kids to disconnect from their screens and embrace the great outdoors! At our daycare in Kenosha, WI, we believe in fostering a healthy balance between technology and fun physical activity. In this blog post, we’ll share 8 tips to help parents and caregivers engage children in screen-free activities this summer. So, let’s dive in and rediscover the joy of unplugged adventures!
Explore Nature’s Playground
Kenosha has many scenic parks, trails, and beaches. Encourage kids to put on their explorer hats and head outside to soak up the sunshine. Take them on nature walks, organize picnics, or build sandcastles on the beach. Engaging with the natural world stimulates their curiosity and promotes physical activity.
There are plenty of beaches and parks to be explored, including:
- Alford Park and Beach
- Bristol Woods Park
- Carlisle Family Dog Park (bring your pup along!)
- Eichelman Park and Beach
- Simmons Island Park and Beach
Check out an entire list here.
Of course, it’s great for kids to play outside, be imaginative, and be creative. However, there are many possibilities for your child to meet other kids, try something new, and push themselves in addition to getting them outside.
Enroll in Summer Camp
Depending on when you are reading this, this year’s summer camp might have already passed. But it’s never too early to start planning for next year. Summer camps provide children with a unique opportunity to explore the great outdoors, make new friends, and learn valuable life skills in a fun and supportive environment.
If summer camp isn’t your child’s favorite, try signing them up for a local sports team or join the local YMCA or Boys and Girls Club. There are also countless clubs, classes, or groups to involve your children in. Finding something your child is interested in is a perfect way to get them excited about doing things without the screens!
Our daycare offers an exciting summer camp program that combines adventure, learning, and friendships. Stay tuned for updates next year and be ready to secure a spot for your child’s unforgettable summer experience.
Create a Family Movie Night
While we advocate for screen-free activities, we believe movie nights are a great way to have monitored screen time with the family! Establishing designated movie nights with family or friends can provide a healthy compromise.
Make it a special occasion with cozy blankets, popcorn, and everyone’s favorite snacks. After all, who doesn’t love a good movie marathon once in a while? If you’re looking for recommendations, check out our latest blog on must-watch movies in Summer 2023.
Make sure your children understand that this monitored screen time is a healthy alternative to them endlessly scrolling and watching things on their own. If your children are confused about why they aren’t able to be on their screens by themselves but rather in a monitored environment, simply explain that this is a healthy way for them to have some time watching tv or movies, while also spending time with the family.
Embrace Art and Crafts
Unleash your child’s inner artist by providing them with art supplies and encouraging their creative side. From painting and drawing to making DIY crafts, artsy projects provide endless possibilities for self-expression. Children can learn creativity, problem-solving techniques, and teamwork through collaborative projects. Additionally, they offer wonderful chances for families to spend time together.
Check out our blog, “10 Collaborative Family Arts & Crafts Projects” to get inspired by ideas and explore new crafts. Some of our favorites include DIY slime, sensory bins, and edible playdough! There are limitless ideas waiting to be created, often made with things found around the house or at your local craft store.
Promote Active Play
Encouraging children to participate in active play not only contributes to their overall health and well-being but also fosters crucial developmental skills.
Organizing outdoor games, such as tag, hide-and-seek, or soccer, can be a great way to get kids moving and enjoying the benefits of fresh air and exercise. Additionally, parents and caregivers can organize family outings to parks, playgrounds, or hiking trails, providing opportunities for children to explore nature and engage in active adventures.
Active play could even include building a fort inside or playing a board game that may require some movement in the house.
By setting limits on screen time and providing alternative options for active play, we can inspire children to develop a lifelong love for physical activities while simultaneously promoting their physical, mental, and social development.
Start a Reading Challenge
Summer is an excellent time to dive into the captivating world of books. Encourage your child to participate in a reading challenge where they can explore various genres, characters, and imaginative stories. Ask your child what they would like to win if they complete the challenge, and let them have a say in the prizes or activities they get to do, even if it means they choose to play video games as a reward.
Visit the local library together and let them choose their favorite books! You can even set up a cozy reading nook at home, complete with comfortable cushions and a soft reading light. This reading challenge is a great way not only to get your children to limit their screen time but it is also great for incentivising children to find healthy options of entertainment!
Foster Family Time
Nothing beats quality time spent with loved ones. Fostering family time is a wonderful way to limit screen time for children and promote meaningful connections within the household. Designating specific periods as “screen-free zones” allows the entire family to engage in activities that encourage bonding and quality time together.
This can also be a time when friends or other family members are invited over to spend quality time together. You can play board games, have regular family meals, go for walks or outings, or engage in shared hobbies or interests. By actively participating in these activities, parents can lead by example and show their children the value of creating friendships and real-life experiences.
Continue Compromising & Creating Boundaries
When establishing screen time rules for children during the summer, finding a compromise and setting clear boundaries is essential. It’s important to recognize that screens can offer educational and entertainment value, but excessive use can hinder other aspects of a child’s development.
Parents and caregivers should engage in open and honest discussions with their children to collectively determine reasonable limits for screen time. By involving children in the decision-making process, they feel heard and are more likely to listen to the rules. A balanced approach can be taken, where screen time is allocated for specific purposes, such as educational content or creative activities. Additionally, setting daily or weekly limits can help children manage their time effectively.
By implementing these tips, you can encourage your child to engage in a variety of fun, educational, and screen-free activities. Remember, it’s all about finding the right balance that allows them to enjoy technology responsibly while still exploring real-life experiences. Let this summer be one filled with laughter, exploration, and precious moments that will be cherished for years to come.
