​Here’s How You Can Encourage Your Child to Play Outdoors

The 21st century has been wonderful in terms of technological advancements and computer engineering. But roses don’t come without the thorns and the advancement in tech doesn’t come without some major drawbacks. There was a time when the word ‘internet’ and ‘iPads’ were foreign and that time wasn’t so long ago either. Back then children would spend their time playing outside and engaging in actual physical activities.

Now, though, studies have revealed that an average child spends over eight hours in front of a screen, whether it’s a TV or a smartphone. While these machines can be educational and productive, too much of anything is never good.
Have you ever wondered why the older generation is a lot more physically active than their children? That’s because they were always wired to stay on their feet as children. Unlike the lazy couch potatoes the new generation is turning into, the previous one had a healthy, active lifestyle.

It’s not too late!
If you’re a parent and seriously worried about the hours your child spends in front of a screen, you can make amendments now and change your child’s lifestyle into a healthy one.

Slow and Steady
 If your child is used to playing with technology all the time, you might not want to take it all away at once. Setting appropriate limitations and building them up gradually will allow your child to adjust properly instead of acting in a rebellious way.

Secure your devices with a password and only allow the child specific hours to use them. Many parents spoil their children by buying them their own smartphones and tablets right off the bat before they’re even in primary school. That’s probably the worst mistake you can make and you’d want to avoid that.

Play with Your Child
It’s a fact that children copy what they see their parents do. If you’re on the phone or on the PC all the time yourself, you’re not doing your child any good. Engage with your child in outdoor activities and try to stay off the gadgets when you’re around them.

Looking for a great Albany childcare program?  Check out TSL Adventures today!  We serve the entire Albany area.