As parents-to-be and having a circle of friends who are parents themselves, I am deeply concerned about the effects of screen time on our children. It is a topic that has been gaining traction, especially with the Singapore government highlighting the need for more decisive and effective measures to shape the habits of device usage among the young. Recent research shows alarming links between excessive screen time and worsening mental health in children.

The article from The Straits Times discusses the new measures Singapore plans to implement to address screen time and device usage. The statistics are concerning: children between 18 months and six years old should ideally spend no more than an hour on screens daily, with zero screen time recommended for those under 18 months, except for video calls. For older children and teenagers, the emphasis is on balancing screen use with other activities and ensuring screens are turned off at least an hour before bedtime.

The Negative Effects of Excessive Screen Time

Excessive screen time has been linked to several negative outcomes, including:

  1. Reduced Attention Span: Constant exposure to fast-paced digital content can impair a child's ability to focus and pay attention.
  2. Sleep Problems: The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with sleep patterns, leading to poor sleep quality and duration.
  3. Physical Health Issues: Sedentary behavior associated with screen time can contribute to obesity and related health issues.
  4. Mental Health Concerns: There is a growing body of evidence linking excessive screen time to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

As parents(current and to-be), it is our responsibility to create environments that promote healthier habits and reduce the dependency on screens. This is where Joiemakers can play a significant role.

Joiemakers' Electronic-Free Solutions

At Joiemakers, we believe in the power of play to foster creativity, learning, and parent-child bonding without the need for screens. Our range of electronic-free products offers a refreshing alternative to digital entertainment, encouraging children to engage in imaginative and interactive play.

The Vertical Playmat is not just a dry-erase (white) board; it is a canvas for creativity. This versatile decal can be placed anywhere in your home, providing a space for your child to draw, write, and express themselves without the distractions of a screen. It's an excellent tool for encouraging artistic skills and cognitive development.
Our Wooden Magnetic Playkit is a delightful blend of fun and learning. This kit includes a variety of magnetic shapes and pieces that children can use to create scenes and stories, fostering their imagination and problem-solving skills. It is a wonderful way to keep children engaged in constructive play while reducing screen time.
The Minimakers' Playcards are designed to spark curiosity and creativity in young minds. Each card features a different activity or challenge that encourages children to think critically and use their hands to solve problems. These cards are perfect for interactive family time, ensuring that playtime is both educational and screen-free.

Encouraging Healthier Habits

Reducing screen time is not just about limiting access to devices; it is about providing appealing alternatives that captivate children’s interest. Joiemakers’ products are designed with this in mind, offering enriching play experiences that promote development and bonding. By integrating these products into your daily routine, you can help your children develop healthier habits and reduce their reliance on screens.

A Collaborative Effort

While the government's efforts to address screen time are crucial, real change begins at home. Parents need to be proactive in shaping our children’s habits. By choosing electronic-free play options like those offered by Joiemakers, we can create a balanced environment that supports our children's overall well-being.

Let us take this step together to ensure our children grow up with healthy habits and the freedom to explore their creativity beyond screens. Joiemakers is here to support you every step of the way.

 


For more information on our electronic-free products and how they can benefit your family, visit Joiemakers.

 

Cover photo courtesy of : https://www.instagram.com/p/C8eFdGNyeoW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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