Keep Kids Productive with These Activities
Studies show teenagers spend an average of
seven hours a day on their phones, while children between eight and 12 years
old spend about four hours a day on them. While smartphones are a good source
of information and entertainment, extended screen time can have detrimental
effects on a child's mental and physical health. This includes poor focus and
eyesight, and can also contribute to a sedentary lifestyle and obesity. This is
why parents are encouraged to lessen their children's screen time and have them
focus on more productive activities that can hone their talent and skills. Here
are some suggestions from specialists.
Let Them Play Musical Instruments
Many are not aware of how music can boost a
child's motor skills, social, and emotional well-being. It helps them express
themselves and discover talents they were not aware they had. Of course, your
child's input is important. Children often show fondness over their interests,
and if you find your child interested in playing the piano, you can ask if he
or she would like to take lessons with a piano instructor.If your child gets excited by
the idea, you can ask local instructors or music schools for available
schedules and also start shopping around for a good piano for children or
beginners.
Learn a New Language
Learning a new language opens new doors of
opportunities, and starting them young is a great idea. Children are great,
adaptive learners and acquiring a new skill such as speaking a new language can
be easier at their age compared to adults.The good news is, if you have the
time, you and your child can learn a new language together, making it a great
bonding moment. You can start by reading children's books with translations and
DVDs or CDs with language guides. Nowadays, you can also find movies that have
subtitles, making it easier to understand them. You can also opt to enroll your
child at a language school.
Engage Them in Sports
One great way to keep your child productive
during vacation is sports. Whether it is basketball, baseball, running,
gymnastics, or whichever sport your child is interested in, it will help boost
confidence, promote camaraderie and leadership, as well as improve sleep and cardiovascular health.
Nowadays, children have already become prone to stress due to changes in their
environment and social issues. Sports can help them overcome stress and focus
on engaging activities that are important to them.If your child has shown
interest in a particular sport, show your support by asking them about any
events they would like to participate in. You can also provide sports equipment
and clothing that will make playing their favorite sport even more fun.
There are many ways on how you can help
your children have a fun yet productive school break vacation. Just make sure
to ask them about which one they are particularly interested in to ensure they
are having fun while doing it. It is important for them to have a say on which
productive activity they would like to participate in. You can also help them
choose which ones may suit them best if they are not sure what to pursue. Keep
in mind that it should be interesting for them to make sure it is worthwhile.