If your kids are like most kids, they’re more interested in sitting on the couch playing on their electronic devices than they are in going outside to play. Nagging doesn’t get them off the couch. Setting screen time limits could help, but that alone will might leave you with grumpy, still-don’t-want-to-go-outside kids. And that’s not what you’re looking for. You want your kids to get outside and experience how awesome summertime can be, no screens and no couch needed. But don’t give up yet! Getting your kids off the couch this summer may be easier than you think.
Entice Them with Fun Activities
Just telling kiddos to go outside and play may not be enough to spark their interest. Especially if they’re lost in the world they’re watching on their screen. But, if you plan some fun activities or make your space a fun zone that calls to them to get active, getting them off the couch will be easy.
For their health, you want your kids to get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day. Instead of forcing them to get active, try to give them an opportunity to do fun activities they’ll enjoy. Is this the year you get the backyard pool your family has been wanting? Your kids will happily play outside all day every day!
Maybe a ping pong table or arcade game is the perfect addition to your family room that will have the whole family off the couch and playing games.
And don’t overlook how important family games and outdoor activities are to your kids. A family bike ride or kickball tournament will make your kids happy and give you a chance to get your exercise in, too. Or, get the kiddos outside to catch fireflies while you relax in the hot tub after dinner.
Of course, even though fun activities will get your kids off the couch, you’ll probably still need to set some limits with their devices. But, that doesn’t have to be something your kids will hate.
Make Limits Easier for Your Kids to Handles
Make limits and screen time guidelines easier to handle by incorporating challenges and goals. For instance, let your kids earn more time with their electronics by reading so many chapters of a book or completing extra chores. This is also a great trick when they want a special toy from the store. Reading books and doing extra jobs around the house are great ways for them to earn that L.O.L. Surprise™ doll or Lego™ set they want.
If you want to treat your kids to an extra-fun summer, stop by one of our showrooms! One of our above-ground pools or arcade games may be just what you need to cap off an excellent summer together.
