Finding Balance in a Screen-Filled World
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Today, I sat down with a cup of tea, listening to the hum of my kids' tablet games in the background. My two children, Willow (7) and Jonah (8), were sprawled out on the sofa, completely engrossed. For a moment, I felt torn—part of me was grateful they were content and entertained, but another part of me wondered, Is this too much?
The Battle with Screens
Screens are everywhere. They're part of schoolwork, playdates, even bedtime routines when the kids ask for "just one more story" on the e-reader. Don’t get me wrong—technology has its perks. Willow loves learning new drawing techniques from YouTube, and Jonah has developed an impressive knack for solving puzzles in his favourite game. But lately, I’ve started questioning the balance.
There’s something almost hypnotic about the glow of those screens. Once they’re on, pulling the kids away feels like trying to separate magnets. And when I finally do manage to get them to pause, the groans and eye rolls can feel like a tiny rebellion.
Realising the Need for Change
The other day, I noticed something that really struck me. Willow, who used to love writing little stories in her notebook, hadn’t picked it up in weeks. Jonah, my energetic explorer who once spent hours building forts in the garden, was now more interested in levelling up his character on a game.
That night, after they were tucked in, I did a little research. I read articles and studies about how screen time is at an all time high with the average child spending 6.3 hours a day in front of a screen. It affects their sleep, attention spans, and even their social skills (not to mention their physical and mental health along with cognitive development). Technology is such a great tool in so many ways and I realised that it wasn’t about demonising it but about understanding its impact. The phrase that stuck with me was "finding balance."
A Small Experiment
The next day, I proposed a challenge at breakfast. “How about we try something different today?” I said. “No screens for one hour. Instead, let’s do something creative or adventurous. You pick.”
Willow's eyes lit up. “Can we make a storybook?” she asked. Jonah chimed in, “And can I draw the pictures?”
We pulled out some blank paper, markers, and pens. For an hour, the house was filled with chatter, laughter, and brainstorming. Willow wrote about a brave squirrel who saved her forest, while Jonah drew colourful trees, animals, and even a tiny hero in a red cape.
Reflecting on the Moment
It felt so good to see them engaged, not just with each other but with their own imaginations. Later, as I tucked them into bed, I asked what they thought about the "no-screen hour." Jonah grinned and said, “Can we do it again tomorrow?” Willow nodded enthusiastically.
This experience reminded me that screens aren’t the enemy; they’re just a tool. It’s up to us as parents to guide how they’re used. I’m not aiming for perfection—just more moments like today, where creativity and connection shine brighter than any screen.
Moving Forward
From now on, I’m setting small goals: tech-free family dinners, screen-free Sundays, and encouraging more hands-on activities. I know there’ll be resistance, and that’s okay. Parenting isn’t about getting it right all the time; it’s about trying, learning, and growing together.
Here’s to finding balance in this digital age—one small step at a time.
That’s the plan, anyway. We’ll see how it goes tomorrow. 😊