Balancing Technology and Physical Activity
By Sonya Brown
If you were born before 1990, your childhood looked a lot different than children today. You most likely remember being outside, in an unstructured setting, having the freedom to experiment with movement skills. We felt challenged yet successful, building confidence and competence in a variety of skills and movements. Most importantly, we were having fun! We were heading on the progressing path of enhancing our physical literacy and enjoying every minute of our journey.
Today, children and youth are exposed to technology in various locations: at home, school, friend’s houses, etc. It has become a part of everyday life. Screens are popping up everywhere and this is only going to become more common. As advances in technology continue, our lives become more efficient and effective, but have we lost sight of what really matters?
Technology is increasing but can we find a balance to make sure sedentary behavior does not continue to increase? How do we find a balance in a world that is becoming overpopulated with screens?
Some tips on balancing technology and physical activity in our children’s lives, and our own lives:
Set daily limits or guidelines. (Only certain times of the day are okay to use screens, all other times you must unplug.)
Encourage them to get outdoors. Who needs a screen when you can discover so much more in the great outdoors? Some ideas: scavenger hunts, snowmen building, rolling down hills, etc.
Lead by example. Nothing has a greater impact than a positive role model. How often are you on a screen in front of them? Take note and unplug and get moving with them.
Create a list of unplugged activities. Keep an activity jar at home and have your children help make the list.
Technology is not going anywhere, and we may not have a choice where screens are, but we do have a choice in finding balance in our lives and learning how to unplug. Learning these skills and passing them on to our children helps us all lead happy healthy lives!
