TV Alternatives for Tots
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children 2 and older get no more than two hours of screen time a day, while those under 2 watch none. For most parents, this isn’t new information. We all know excessive TV time is linked to some unfortunate consequences, such as childhood obesity, language delays and shortened attention spans. Yet all too often the television inevitably finds its way into most little ones’ days in the hope that it can provide entertainment or educational value (if not allow Mom and Dad bit of free time and a much needed break). Reducing or completely eliminating screen time is only half the battle. Providing alternative means of activity is essential.
Story time. Many TV shows tout educational benefits, but nothing has been proven to grow a child’s mind like reading to him. By encountering new stories and familiar favorites, a child develops improved speech and critical language skills, mastery of language, increased attention span and the added benefit of discovering that reading is fun. Plus, moments spent snuggled together with books in hand cultivate sweet memories for you and your child!
Outings. Field trips need not be reserved for the elementary school crowd. Toddlers are innately curious. Channel that inquisitive spirit by taking your little one to places where he can ask numerous questions and engage his senses. Go on a nature walk, venture to a new park system, visit the zoo or attend a library story hour. If you are looking for more structured activities, consider signing up for a mommy and me music class or swim lessons. And don’t underestimate the value of simply stepping outside and letting an adventure begin in your own backyard. Dig holes, blow bubbles, plant a garden and jump in puddles!
Play dates. Play dates are a win-win, as little ones get a chance to practice their social skills while Mom (or Dad) enjoys some adult conversation at the same time!
Rotate simple toys. Electronic toys that flash, jiggle, talk and make music seem alluring, but the more a toy does for a child, the less the child has to do with the toy. Simple toys like blocks, chunky puzzles, Legos and Lincoln Logs allow a child to direct the activity of the toy and can be enjoyed for long amounts of time with no batteries required. By rotating toys over a given course of time, you can keep toys in better shape—and they hold greater appeal long term. This tactic also helps keep clutter at bay!
Did You Know?
According to a Kaiser Family Foundation study, 74 percent of all infants and toddlers have watched TV before the age of 2, 48 percent of which view television on a daily basis.
Exhaust the art supplies. Chalk, finger paint, play dough and crayons can get a serious amount of mileage with the toddler crowd. And why not? It’s fun to make a mess all in the name of being creative! Art supplies can be simple and inexpensive. Reserve an old bed sheet exclusively as a tablecloth and an old T-shirt as your child’s smock. Dollar stores stock coloring books, drawing paper, paint and crayons year-round, while most retailers sell art supplies on steep discount soon after the school season is in full swing.
Imaginative play. Why watch a show when you can put one on yourself? Encourage your little one to take center stage in her own production by keeping costumes, puppets and finger puppets in a place where she can easily access them.
Turn it up! Nothing breaks up the monotony of the day like busting out some good tunes. Pandora has multiple children’s stations available for free (our family’s personal favorite is Disney Stories & Songs).
Movie for the mind. Audio books, particularly those that are dramatized, make for entertaining alternatives to screen time, too (and young children passively listening continue to gain exposure to good grammar and expanded vocabulary). What’s not to love about that?
Self-directed play. So often, parents feel obligated to schedule every moment of their little one’s day, but children do not need to be entertained 24/7. In fact, young children are much better served by having free time to discover, explore and grow through imaginative and independent play. By setting up designated safe spaces within your home for free play, you encourage your child to cultivate independence—all under your watchful eye.
Olathe mom Lauren Greenlee aspires to watch less and do more with her three little ones.