Top 5 Toys to Limit Kids’ Screen Time

Limit Your Children’s Screen Time with Engaging Toys

While technology can aid learning and provide entertainment, excessive screen time can lead to various developmental issues for children. Recognising the importance of balance, it’s essential to have engaging alternatives that can entertain and educate without screens.

Understanding Screen Time and Its Effects

Not all screen time is harmful, but moderation is key. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), infants under 18 months should have no screen time, while those aged 18 to 24 months can engage only in video calls with family. For children aged 2 to 5, screen time should be limited to one hour of high-quality programming, preferably with parental involvement.

Negative Effects of Excessive Screen Time

Spending too much time in front of screens can lead to:

• Sleep disturbances
• Declining academic performance
• Reduced reading habits
• Lack of physical activity, potentially causing weight issues
• Mood disorders
• Negative self-image and body perception
• Impaired language development, as children require exposure to a range of spoken words for optimal language acquisition.

Alternative Activities to Reduce Screen Time

Engaging children in interactive activities is a wonderful way to divert their attention away from screens and encourage social skills, vocabulary development, and emotional regulation.

Creative Screen-Free Activities

Arts and crafts rank among the top recommended activities, enhancing both fine motor skills and creativity. Outdoor play also significantly contributes to physical health, developing gross motor skills, strength, and coordination. Other activities to consider include:

• Reading
• Colouring books
• Building blocks
• Science experiments
• Nature exploration
• Sidewalk chalk
• Bubbles
• Imaginative play toys
• Construction sets
• Water play activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How should I handle my child’s reaction when screen time ends?

A. Ketchum advises that setting clear boundaries in advance is essential. If children know that screens are not allowed until a specific time, they won’t expect to use them throughout the day. Phrases like, ‘You can watch one show, then we will have dinner,’ can help establish structure and set clear expectations.

Q. What strategies can parents use to minimise screen exposure?

A. Delaying screen exposure is crucial. Parents should model good behaviour by limiting their own screen time and engaging children in interactive experiences instead. Avoid providing infants with devices to occupy themselves in public spaces, as these moments are ripe for learning and interaction.

Recommended Toys for Screen-Free Play

The following toys are excellent options to promote creativity and engagement without screens:

Kid Made Modern Arts and Crafts Supply Library – With over 1,000 pieces, this kit empowers kids to unleash their creativity through various craft activities.

Crayola Washable Sidewalk Chalk – A fun, colourful way for children to express themselves outdoors, easily washed away after use.

PicassoTiles 60 Piece Set – Magnetic tiles that inspire creative building and spatial awareness.

Little Tikes Sandy Lagoon Sand and Water Table – A sand and water play table that promotes sensory exploration.

Essenson Outdoor Explorer and Bug Catcher Kit – Encourages outdoor discovery and learning about nature.

Hedbanz Picture Guessing Board Game – A fun family game that builds vocabulary and problem-solving skills.

National Geographic Stunning Science Chemistry Set – Engaging and educational, this kit allows children to perform exciting experiments.

Melissa and Doug Jumbo 50 Page Kids’ Colouring Pads Set – A set of three colouring books that fuel creativity for young artists.