Just because school is out for the summer, that doesn’t mean that all electronics rules for your kids should fall by the wayside.
Of course, we aren’t saying you have to ban devices outright – we never would suggest that, as we were once kids hiding electronics from our parents under our blankets, too! But summer is still a good time to reevaluate how much screen time your kids have. Let’s take a look at a few rules that can give everybody the best of both worlds this summer, while still leaving time for summer electronics marathons.
No Screens Before Bed
If you aren’t already limiting your kids’ screen time before bed, then this is probably the first place to start. Screens are bad for sleep health, and even during the summer you should do all you can to keep this practice in place.
But, given it is summer, there are other areas you can be lenient: Maybe you can let the kids stay up an hour or two later than normal to read a book or to listen to music. As long as they put their screens away that is!
Chores First
There are few things more motivating for kids – or adults who are still kids at heart – than having a to-do list before the video games, movies, or iPad can come out. While your kids might not have homework anymore, that doesn’t mean you can’t put them to work on some household chores before they play “Apex Legends” for hours on end.
Whether it’s getting a start on their summer reading list or helping out with the lawn or garden, there are plenty of ways to gets kids active and engaged before they get to the real fun!
In with the New
Summertime is also a great time of year to try new things and go on new adventures. Maybe your kids want to try a new sport or a new outdoor activity. Maybe they want to give camping or fishing a try.
They also, however, may be continually asking for new video games, movies, or other electronics. Well, there’s a way to balance things out! Rewards are good enticements, again, and if you want your kid to try something new, you could always offer them an electronic reward for sticking out the soccer season or going to summer camp.
The one thing you don’t want this summer is a parent-versus-kid electronics war, especially when there are benefits to both electronics and playing outside! Instead, use some of these tips to keep the peace and keep everybody happy.
And if you do decide to bring home some new electronics this summer, you know where to go! You – and your kids – will love coming to our local showroom and seeing all we have to offer in person