I am not a mother that is anti-screen time per se, I just prefer to see my kids active. I have noticed the more tv/video games/tablets they get, the more they want. And the less they want to be active and use their imagination.
I want them to learn while they play, be creative, and be active. I want them to run barefoot in the yard, climb trees, and explore.
They love discovering the new worlds in their video games, but I want them to discover the wonders of this world that God has so graciously given to us. A little screen time is fine! But let’s not go overboard. Everything in moderation.
Are there any other parents out there that can relate?
Research has shown that excessive screen time can cause several negative effects: delayed learning in young children, physical strain to eyes, sleep deprivation, impaired socialization skills, weakened emotional judgement…the list goes on.
A study by the National Health Institute found that kids who spend more than two hours a day of screen-time had lower scores on language and thinking tests! TWO hours! That’s all!
With this in mind, I created a list of 100 toys (divided into four lists) that will keep kids entertained, active, exploring, and learning. Below are the links to each of the four lists. Please keep in mind that the majority of the toys are aimed for ages 3-10. My children are 2, 4, and 6 so I have focused on toys that they have enjoyed.
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This list includes some of my children’s (and my) favorite toys! I gift these to our friends’ and family members’ kids for birthdays and holidays. I wanted to include indoor play, outdoor play, STEM toys, and toys to inspire creativity in their young minds.
I hope you’ll take a look at these drafts and see if any of the toys interest you or your kids. These would make a good start to Christmas/holiday shopping this season.
Feel free to message me at justamomandherbonbons@gmail.com with any questions!
25 Toys to Keep Kids Active Outdoors