I'm dreaming of a no-tech Christmas
- 66% of 5 to 7 year olds play games for nearly 7 1/2 hours a week,
- 79% go online for around 9 hours a week,
- 21% of 3 to 4 year olds have their own tablet,
- 71% use a tablet to go online.
These figures may be scary at first glance, but whilst your little one is staring at the tablet they're developing dexterity, coordination, learning a new language, and taking their first steps into living in this technology-heavy world. Being tech savvy is a crucial skill in today's ever-changing world. But, that doesn't mean family time has to suffer. We're opting for a tech-free Christmas. No, you Don't have to completely scrap all your tech, you wouldn't be reading this blog if you did! But for a few hours on Christmas day, we're setting the tech aside and focusing on family time. Like the good ol' days.
What did we do before tablets and smartphones?
Play a game together
Dust off the classic games like Cluedo and Monopoly and gather the family around. Board games are a great way to teach strategy and improve concentration from an early age. Traditional games like Snakes & Ladders are quicker and easier to play if you have younger children.
Help make Christmas special for everyone
Give back to others. There's nothing better than showing little ones compassion and how we can make a change in the world around us! Check out any volunteering opportunities around your local area. If your little ones are too small for this, think about how you can help people from home, perhaps they could go through their toys and find some to donate to a local charity or pack a Shoebox with Samaritan's Purse.
Walk, walk, walk
A throwback to Christmas day walks! Do they still happen? Wrap up warm in the new scarf Grandma knitted for you and head out for a Christmas day walk after dinner. It will help get rid of that 'I'm so stuffed I could pop' feeling, and delay Grandad falling asleep in the armchair! It's also a great way to get in some family time without the use of technology.
