Screen Time Trends

We’re not alone. New research from woom reveals that 52% of UK parents expect their kids to spend more time on screens than outdoors this summer. I’m big on planning plenty of outdoor activities, but I know that the PS5 or Nintendo Switch is usually the kids’ first port of call for entertainment.

According to the study of 1,500 parents across the UK:

• 70% are concerned about their kids’ activity levels this summer.
• 27% say their children spend less than an hour a day on outside activities during the summer holidays.
• 80% of parents notice positive changes in their children’s’ behaviour and mood when they spend more time outside.

Encouraging Outdoor Activities

I’ve previously written a blog on summer challenges to help keep children stimulated and entertained over the summer and my good friend also wrote a great guest blog about low cost summer activities. woom’s research provides further inspiration revealing the top ten activities that can help get kids active outdoors:

1. Going to the beach (54%)
2. Visiting a playground (45%)
3. Picnic (40%)
4. Playing outdoor sports such as tennis, rounders, badminton (30%)
5. Outdoor swimming/going to a water park (26%)
6. Family bike ride (21%)
7. Going to the zoo (17%)
8. Gardening (14%)
9. Camping (11%)
10. Treasure hunts (7%)

Cycling as an Antidote to Screen Time

One standout finding from the research is the transformative power of cycling. Well over half (56%) of parents noticed that their child had become more confident in other activities since learning to ride a bike. Cycling not only helps build physical fitness but also boosts confidence and creates lasting family memories.

Top Tips

1. Plan Family Bike Rides: Incorporate regular family bike rides into your weekly routine. Explore local parks, trails, and safe bike paths.
2. Mix Up Activities: Alongside biking, mix in other outdoor activities like picnics, beach visits, and treasure hunts to keep things exciting.
3. Set Goals: Encourage your kids to set personal goals, such as learning a new biking trick or exploring a new trail.

—

As parents, we have the power to turn the tide on screen time and make this summer one of outdoor adventure for our children.

The post Get Your Kids Moving This Summer: Tips to Reduce Screen Time appeared first on The Parent Social.