Screen Time Ideas

Hurd & Honey

Many think that relaxing in the evening in front of the television is a terrible idea. And sometimes I can see where this is a problem, especially if the content being absorbed isn't suitable for our children. But, how about sharing a program together that is wholesome, one that evokes empathy, is it all that bad? I have seen our little Ester brought to tears, at just age two, when watching certain movies that had sadness in the plot. It was beautiful, and this is possibly one of the many ways to increase your emotional intelligence. While these emotions can be also be evoked through a lovely book, there is nothing wrong with a heartfelt movie on occasion.

In fact, our children can learn more about their parents by sharing time in front of the television, together. They can see us laugh, cry, and even cringe.

Hurd & Honey

Technology, like phones and TV is getting far more intelligent, and we are given a broad range of things to allow our children to watch. Shows like Puffin Rock are delightful for little ones, and they can learn things about animals that they may never encounter (other than at the zoo). I may sound crazy, but for older children, The Simpsons can be an excellent show to watch together. As kids, we weren't allowed to watch The Simpsons, so naturally, we found ways to watch it. To this day, I love this show, it's clever, relevant, and hilarious. 

Technology shouldn't be about limitations, but more about how we use it, and why we use it. If we're engaged with our children, and providing them experiences that are full of delight, showing our own enthusiasm, they won't always want to zone out on a TV binge. And, if we use technology together, they will prioritize time together versus time with technology, because ultimately, we're all looking for connection.

Instead of focusing on how to limit screen, why don't we focus on how to make make it more meaningful?

*There are packages that include services like Netflix and Hulu (you can learn more from Suddenlink on their website). 

*This is a collaborative post.

Hurd & Honey