4 Simple Ways To Get Kids Offscreen and into the Outdoors

For many parents, screens are the bane of their existence. Turning on the television while cooking dinner or handing your child an iPad while finishing up a Zoom call is sometimes necessary. At the same time, the constant begs for screen time can be challenging to overcome.

The first thing to remember is that you are not alone. Screens are a touchy subject for parents, and there is no right way to navigate them. However, if you're looking for alternative ways to get your kids outdoors and off their screens, then you're in the right place. Here are four simple ways that will make them forget about their beloved devices in no time.

4 Simple Ways To Get Kids Offscreen

1. Make Outdoor Activities a Family Affair

Sending your kids into the backyard by themselves might not be doing it. While some children are great with independent or solitary play, others may not know what to do with themselves. You may see them sitting on the back deck instead of digging in the dirt or bouncing a ball. Soon enough, they'll knock on the door and beg to be let back inside to play their video games.

Making outdoor activities a family affair can be a fun way to connect while also avoiding the temptation of screens. Get into the routine of visiting the neighborhood park every Saturday morning to take a turn on the playground swings. Pack a picnic and invite your child's friends and parents to head to the local beach with you. Go for a family walk after dinner and allow the kids to ride their bikes or scooters. The types of activities can vary based on your children's ages and preferences, so choose options that work best for your family.

2. Plant a Garden

A garden is as much a learning tool as it is an outdoor activity. Planting a garden with your kids can teach them about how plants grow and how to care for them. They can learn about the life cycle of plants and understand the importance of good soil, daily watering, and fertilizer. It may also encourage healthier eating habits, especially if you're growing fruits and veggies.

You don't need acres of land to have a family garden. A few feet of space will do, or even a few pots will work if you're really limited on space. Select plants that do well in your specific area. Easy options include herbs, lettuce, and sunflowers. Give your kids ownership over the garden, ensuring they take care of it daily for it to thrive. This will teach them lessons such as responsibility and patience as they wait for their seedlings to sprout and grow.

3. Walk Whenever Possible

If your kids ask for an iPad anytime you get into the car, then it may be time to find alternate transportation routes. While it may not be available to everyone, walking whenever possible is a great way to reduce screen time. Walking also encourages physical activity and movement and has been shown to improve mental well-being.

If your school is within walking distance, set your and your child's alarm earlier so you have plenty of time to get there on time. Make it a fun activity by playing a game, such as Eye Spy. Ask them about what they are excited about during the day or how they are feeling about a certain subject matter. You may find that they open up to you more and talk more about their feelings during the walk than they would when they're glued to their devices in the car.

4. Seek Out an Adventurous Family Trip

Family vacations are a chance to discover a new destination together, an opportunity to reconnect without the distractions of devices. For your next trip, pick a location that offers ample outdoor activities. If your children are obsessed with riding their bikes, find a riding trail that's suitable for the entire family. Or, if your kids want to try horseback riding, choose a destination with a stable for beginner riders.

The theme of the trip can also be adventure-based. Camping, hiking, snorkeling, or rafting experiences are great options. Before booking the trip, do a bit of research and ask the kids what types of activities excite them most. Find a destination that is great for adults and kids alike and will have everyone talking about it for years to come.

Tips and Takeaways

Screen time is a rising challenge for today's parents. Every parent will need to find out the amount of time that is appropriate for their children. Using the tips above can help find new ways to limit their time while also spending more time outdoors in nature.

Other helpful tips include setting strict screen time limits. Download an app or use the device's screen time settings to monitor usage. Make a rule that your kids can't go on a device until their homework is finished or until everyone has eaten dinner. Also, designate areas in your home that are considered screen-free, perhaps the dining room table or the bedroom. Modeling good behavior by following these rules yourself and spending more time outdoors can also encourage kids to drop the device.