Dear Parents and Carers, 

 

Making space for play beyond screens 

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Phones, tablets and television can be useful at times, and we know that family life can be busy. In this week’s newsletter I wanted to raise awareness about the harm that overuse of screens can have on your young children. 

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A recent review by the Government’s Early Years Screen Time Advisory Group found that that long periods of screen use can become a concern when they replace our sleep routines, movement, conversation, creative play and family routines. The review recommends that children under two avoid screen time except for shared activities, and that children aged two to five have no more than an hour a day, ideally in short periods, with solo use kept to a minimum. These are recommendations, not a reason to feel guilty if screens are part of your family’s day. (assets.publishing.service.gov.uk) 

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The World Health Organisation also advises that screen time for children aged two to four should be no more than an hour a day, with less being better. It encourages families to make time for active play, sleep, reading and storytelling. (who.int) 

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What could children do instead? 

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When you are tempted to hand over a phone, tablet or switch on the television, try one small, screen-free activity: 

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• While you cook: give your child a safe bowl and spoon to mix, or ask them to wash vegetables and name what they can see, smell and feel. 

• When you need a few quiet minutes: offer a favourite book, crayons and paper, a simple puzzle, playdough, or a small box of toys they can explore independently. 

• On a journey or while waiting: play “I spy”, sing a familiar song, tell a story together, or look for different colours, vehicles or animals. 

• To use up energy: put on music and dance, make an indoor obstacle course with cushions, or go outside to look for leaves, birds and minibeasts. 

• To help with everyday routines: invite your child to pair socks, put toys away, help set the table or choose fruit for a snack. 

• To stay connected with family: try a phone call or video call together, with an adult joining in and chatting with the child. 

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Simple activities do not need special equipment or money. Young children learn through everyday conversation, relationships and play. If you do use a screen, watching together and talking about what you see can make it a more shared, interactive experience.  At Oxhey, we see every day how much children enjoy investigating, making, moving and talking together.

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