5 Screen Free Activities for Children

Children are spending less time outdoors and it’s affecting both their health and development. While they are protected against injury and disease, their immune systems are taking the hit as they are exposed to fewer germs and viruses. The outdoors is also needed for developing gross motor skills which children need to climb, run, and exert their physical strength. Spending less time outdoors means that they can’t build on this ability and stay fit. This is down to a number of reasons, notably their devices, a lack of outdoor spaces and perceived danger. If you’re a parent looking for ideas on how to get your child out and about, here are 5 screen free activities from a group of educational professionals in Essex.

Visit Your Local Farm

Whilst the weather’s still nice outside, why not go and visit a farm? It will give you the opportunity to teach your child about where their food comes from and species other than ourselves. The outdoors can also help them to develop a love and appreciation for the natural world that they just would not be able to by sitting at home. 

A Game of Rounders

Children love games and rounders is one that will have you both putting in all your effort. If you’re not afraid of a little challenge and breaking a sweat, it’s a lovely activity to bond over.

Outdoor Drawings

You can also take your child outdoors by giving them the opportunity to draw outdoors on a much larger scale. All you will need is chalk and water to wash it all away once they’re done.

Gardening

An extra pair of hands makes for light work. You can teach your child a thing or two about taking care of living things by giving them the chance to garden with you. It can be quite rewarding for them too as they can see the plants grow and how well they’ve done at nurturing them.

Camping

Camping can be the digital detox that you need and help children to develop a connection with nature. While on your trip, they can learn a few lessons on survival and making the most of what they have.

We hope that you found this article useful. If you would like more parenting tips and guidance, feel free to take a look at our other blogs!