In this newsletter, we provide you with notes on Play More, Tech Less with Abby Lynch, an episode of Minimalist Moms Podcast.
Host Diane Boden, is a mother of three and the voice behind the top-rated podcast, Minimalist Moms. Her guest, Abby Lynch, is the creator of the @playmore_techless.
Save time and read our notes on play and tech.
Topics Covered in this Summary
Setting a Healthy Balance around Tech
Tech and Developing a Child’s Imagination
Taking Control of Screen Time
Setting a Healthy Balance around Tech
Tech is a part of our lives and we cannot and do not want to remove it entirely, however, we do want to set healthy boundaries around the use of tech.
Research says that if you are engaging in screen time with your child and sharing that experience with them, it could minimise the detrimental effects of screen time.
Our kids need space to switch off, allowing time for children to develop their imagination.
It’s great to involve children in trying different things and finding flexibility in what works for you and your family.
Abby Lynch explains: Her kid wanted to watch her favorite show after school, but Abby didn’t want to make it a routine. She agreed but asked her kid to try something else the following day.
The goal is to achieve that balance and find a variety of non-screen activities that you and your child enjoy doing.
Tech and Developing a Child’s Imagination
Imagination can’t be taught, and children need opportunities to practice creating images in their minds, consider possibilities, and try out different roles while practicing language through self-talk.
Ways to foster your child’s imagination:
Read books to your child. It promotes brain development and imagination.
Give your child ideas on what to do. You may suggest a role play.
Find and create things in nature together.
Put out some materials for children to play with that would spark an idea of their own.
Taking Control of Screen Time
Parents might feel stuck using screens and feel like they can't shift how they've been parenting in this area.
Take having a screen in your car as an example. You introduce it on a long journey to pass the time, and the next thing you know, they can’t ride in a car without turning it on anymore.
It is important to remember that you have the ability to take control because you are the adult. Reset those boundaries and communicate this in an age appropriate manner.
Parenting Advice To Go
Remind yourself that you're the parent, and you're allowed to say no to using the screen.
Talk to your kids about it. No matter how young they are, set boundaries. You may come up with a question such as ‘’I wonder what we could do instead this time?’’.
Resources to Enhance your Child’s Creative Thinking
Something To Do Activity Book by Brie Muhlenkamp & Kaitlyn Sapp
Busy Toddler Instagram account
The Screentime Consultant Instagram account
Play More Tech Less Instagram account
Abby’s Resource: Every School
Useful Links
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Listen to the original podcast