Screen-Free with Preschoolers

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Most of us are aware that too much T.V. time isn't the healthiest thing for children. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children under age 2 not watch any television and children over age 2 be limited to 1 to 2 hours per day of quality programming (10 hours per week maximum). Sadly, the average toddler or preschool-age child watches 32 hours per week. 

The list of things children can do outside of screen-time is endless. What did children do for thousands of years before the invention of the television? Left to simply be children, they will find much to do on their own. Sometimes a little inspiration from mom is necessary, but given the tools and proper environment, imagination is the name of the game.

Here is a small list of things young children can do instead of watching television.

• Make a jungle - This is a neat paper craft that young children could do with mom or dad's help.

• Make play dough - We've all done this. It's simple and fun. It entertains for hours!

• Play with feet - Here are some great ideas for learning about feet. The children can compare feet to those of other animals, make foot prints with fingerpaints and explore movement.

• The Very Hungry Caterpillar activities - I found an entire Pinterest board dedicated to this. 

• Decorate a flower pot

• Paint- fingerpainting is easy (and you can make your own). Kids love watercolors too. This is a great opportunity to refine motor skills and explore colors. 

• Study Bugs - From catepillars to bugs and butterflies, this pinterest board has lots of activities.  

• Make mud pies - They can do this out of doors, of course. But have you ever seen a mud pie kitchen? Kind of cool!

Again, this is a small list. But hopefully it inspire you to more ideas for screen-free activities with your preschool child. 

Could you add to the list? I'd love to see your ideas in the comments.

Then please go visit the other talented ladies at the Spring 2013 Hopscotch.

Happy Homeschooling!