21 May How to spend more quality time with family in the digitized age?

We live in a world where there are more tech devices than people. Parents and kids alike are spending more and more time on these devices. And while technology can certainly enhance our lives and routines, it's important that we don't let it displace important activities, such as quality family time.

As every parent knows, children grow up in the blink of an eye and making more memories together is always a welcome habit to form.

Here are 3 ideas you can implement to have more quality family time, and less screen time.

SET LIMITS- This is easier said than done, but setting strict limits around screen time can easily increase the amount of time you spend together interacting as a family without having to force it. It also helps children to engage in more conversations which are key for development. Just remember if you expect your kids to have limits on screen time, you should as well.

HAVE NO DEVICE ZONES- A no device zone is simply an area or areas of the house where devices are not allowed. This teaches your children that devices have a time and a place for use and that they are not always welcome. Its important to remember that this rule goes for everyone in the house, parents and children alike. Lead by example and children will follow suit.

SCHEDULE CO-DEVICE TIME- As children get older it's very important to keep an eye on their online activity for safety. This is a great habit to form when they are young. Then as they become teenagers, it will be part of your routine versus a new rule you are mandating. At least once a week, schedule co-device time where you sit and participate or watch whatever game, show, etc. they want. Not only will it be shared bonding time, but it can also be a time for you to monitor their activities.

Technology is all around us and we don't want our children to ignore its existence, but we should monitor and set boundaries around its usage. It is our job as parents to ensure the technology we use is enhancing our lives versus displacing social interactions.

For example, a Gululu water bottle is a helpful technology, whereas a non-educational tablet game is not helpful. There is a time and place for all types of technology and we can start teaching that at a very young age.

The most important thing to remember is that nothing is as valuable as quality family time, so take your kids for a walk, play a board game together or cook a meal together in the kitchen. These are the moments where cherished memories are made!

Love,
Team Gululu