Asset of the month – Time at Home

The Developmental Asset for April is Time at Home.  It is imperative that children spend time at home in high quality interaction with their parents, such as participating in family activities, and playing constructively, while parents monitor the time spent in front of the TV and with electronic games.

 For younger children:

• Watch what they watch.  If you’re not comfortable with what’s on the screen, turn it off or choose a different option.
• Make something together—such as play dough, muffins, or placemats. 
• Allow for downtime.  Children need unscheduled time when nothing is expected of them.
• As much as possible, keep young children off the internet and limit computer use. They’ll pick up plenty of skills at school—no need for a “head start.”
• If possible, stagger work times with your parenting partner to lessen time in day care.  Even in great daycares, children wear out, and need time at home with Mom and Dad.

 For older kids:

• Focus on constructive time at home.  Set aside one night a week for family time—play games, form a book club, make dinner together, or go for a walk.
• Limit time glued to the TV or computer (electronic games, too!).  Most kids would choose to be active if not for the “screen.”
• Plan media-free time at home—play games, listen to music, go on an outing, plan an activity you can all enjoy.
• Keep mealtimes as “connecting times.” Eat together at the table, and turn off the TV!
• Encourage teens to try to get involved in activities instead of just “hanging out.”

 Written by Diane Rumer for Kenton County Alliance, 859-760-2051.

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