How Can We Ensure A Balanced Childhood? Experts' Parental Guidance To Reduce Screen Time

New Delhi: The early years of a child are significant as it is a period of rapid growth - physically, cognitively, socially, and emotionally. Engaging them in playful learning, and encouraging active participation are fundamental to their holistic development. And this is the essence of ‘Bachpan Manao', an initiative by EkStep and NDTV. This social mission is dedicated to maximising the learning and growth opportunities of early childhood.

There are several individuals who recognise the impact of the formative years, and Mrunal Shah, Founder of Sunday Bricks is one of them. He champions environments and interactions that allow children to thrive. According to Shah, the critical need for well-crafted play areas for a child's overall well-being. Harpreet Singh Grover, expert in parenting and education, also shared essential measures for parents to limit screen time and foster more creativity, exploration, and family bonding.

In a world rapidly dominated by digital screens, the experts highlighted key tips that can help reduce children's screen time effectively:

• Parents are suggested to participate in a child's day-to-day activities as it encourages interaction.
• Parents must engage in play together to strengthen bonds, stimulate imagination, and provide a fun alternative to screen time.
• Give children space and opportunities to interact with grandparents, cousins, and family members, as this will foster their social skills.
• Parents should be involved in a child's participation in school events. This will help improve academic performance and strengthen the parent-child relationship.
• Spend quality time with children. Being present leads to deeper understanding, open communication, furthermore keeping them away from screen use towards.
• Children learn by watching. Parents must show their kids the joy of play by participating themselves.
• Monkey See, Monkey Do! By actively playing, you're not just having fun, you're directly contributing to your child's healthy development.

By engaging in playful learning and being involved in a child's day-to-day activities, we can give children the best chance to learn, grow, and enjoy a well-rounded childhood.

Play is the heart of early childhood. But screens often get in the way, taking time away from play, which brings learning, growth and joy! Take the pledge to ensure less screen, more play for your children. Log on to ndtv.com/bachpanmanao