By Dr John Allan, Head of Impact Breakthrough Learning at PGL Beyond.
Shocking new research has revealed that young people will spend 25 years of their lives looking at their smartphones. For parents who already feel like they’re facing a constant battle of balancing the amount of screen time their children have, these new figures are a stark reminder of just how much the rise of technology has changed the way the younger generation interact, entertain themselves and make sense of the world.
As parents, we intuitively know that children benefit more from being out in nature than from being indoors looking at screens, but the longer-term impact of this is less well understood. By not spending large chunks of time outdoors interacting with nature, skills such as imaginative thinking, resilience and curiosity are greatly reduced, as well as the ability to learn about risk and failure in a safe and low-stakes situation.
Entertaining kids without the draw of the television or tablet can be tricky – especially when you’re balancing working and life admin – but by following these tips, parents can look to switch up their routine and encourage their children to spend time away from screens in a way that doesn’t feel enforced.
Set clear boundaries for screen time
Technology is a part of our lives, whether we’re a fan or not, and – when used in a focused way and in moderation – can enhance learning for kids. An overall ban on screen time is not realistic and could have the opposite effect on the younger generation if completely off limits. Instead, try setting boundaries that discourage the use of devices at certain times, particularly during mealtimes and bedtimes, and consider how tech can be used mindfully. For example, apps can be used to identify aspects of nature such as the types of trees or identifying a bird species, supporting learning on the go.
Long breaks from screens help children develop better attention, imagination and self-entertainment, so try to plan regular screen-free time each week. Encouraging less reliance on digital devices is conducive to authentic learning, as excessive screen time has been associated with youngsters vocalising and sharing less, limiting their questioning and failing to recognise the real-life implications of decision-making.
Make the most of the great outdoors
All parents want their children to be good learners, and evidence shows that play is the best way to support learning – so it’s time to start the games! You can maximise the benefits of play by combining it with time outdoors, such as making art outdoors using mud, chalk or natural materials, or setting up a ‘nature treasure hunt’ with items like smooth stones, different leaves, or feathers. This combination shows children that there is fun and enjoyment to be had outside of screens. Through physical activity and play, such as made-up games and scenarios, children can boost their creativity and imagination, helping to make them socially engaged learners. For older children, sports-based activities that take place outdoors can provide entertainment, while also building confidence and resilience. The authenticity of nature and the unpredictability of adventurous experiences help support learning in a way that is memorable and meaningful for kids.
Encourage movement to boost mood
We all know that exercise is good for the body, with experts recommending kids aged 5 to 17 do at least 60 minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity per day, to increase fitness, build bone strength and even reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Children who exercise regularly are more likely to be physically active, and therefore healthier in adulthood, so it’s great to get those daily habits introduced from a young age. Exercise needn’t be seen as a chore: swimming, climbing, dancing and sports are all fun activities that parents can enjoy with kids of all ages. Any activity that gets kids and teens moving, raises their heart rate and gets them away from the screen is worthwhile – and can be great for improving their moods!
While the temptation of screen time will always be there, by setting boundaries, creating opportunities for outdoor play and encouraging movement, parents can create an environment where screens are used to enhance learning and play but aren’t relied on as the sole form of entertainment. In doing so, parents will help their children build the self-reliance, confidence and curiosity to thrive both online and offline, laying the groundwork for a balanced and fulfilling life.
About the expert
Dr John Allan, Head of Impact & Breakthrough Learning at PGL Beyond, is a lead academic in Sports Pedagogy, Psychology and Adventure Education. He has a PhD in Positive Psychology and Building Psychological Resilience through Outdoor Adventure, and his recent study on ‘Building resilience and well-being for post-covid adolescents through outdoor adventure’, is published in the Institute of Outdoor Learning’s Journal of Adventure Education and Outdoor Learning.
While perhaps best known for its school residential trips, PGL Beyond is an umbrella brand uniting a range of organisations to offer a range of educational travel and outdoor learning experiences for children and young people, both as part of school-based learning and away from school. It comprises of PGL, NST, European Study Tours, and StudyLink Tours.
