As summer starts, many families may naturally plan for day camps and summer vacations. This year, I am making a conscious decision of putting "play time with my kids' the higher priority among other summer routines. Instead of expensive trips, may be what our kids long for are the simple, inexpensive, yet priceless moments of "togetherness."
Like many other parents, I have placed limit on my kids' screen time. I thought that is one channel to safeguard their well being in this digital era. It is not until I came across the book by Devorah Heitner that I realize there is a higher ground. The book is titled "Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive (and Survive) in Their Digital World." In the book, Heitner describes three main approaches to technology.
1. "Limiters" predominately use a restrictive approach to screen time without meaningful interaction about the nature and quality of kids' tech engagements. Their approach is "less is more."
2. "Mentors" engage with their kids about technology. These engagement activities include "play a video game with my child," "talk with my child about how to use technology," the Internet, or a specific website responsibly," and "show my child a book, article, video game, or program to help them learn about technology."
3. The third group of parents are "enablers," taking a more laissez-faired approach. They do not limit, nor mentor--and the kids are left to their own devices.
Which type would you categorize yourself? I fall more under "limiters." But Heitner's book challenges me to move from "limiter" to "mentor." And so, we have started dedicating the time after dinner over the summer to play games. Per Heitner's suggestion, we are hoping to alternate the unplugged and "plugged in" games. I wanna get into my kids' world to understand their perspectives and values through playing with them. The fun game moments offer a good window for just that.
Here are some advice from Heitner:
Games are a powerful way for families to come together. Traditional board games are a time-honored tradition, but interactive digital games have the potential to be just as powerful as their analog counterparts. To keep kids engaged and excited, consider designating a family game night once a week, alternating unplugged and "plugged in" games each time. Let your child introduce you to her favorite game and see what you like. . . Ask your kids to show you how to play the games they like, and play with them sometimes. There's a hidden benefit for parents in such collaborative gaming: participating with your kids in their games--and watching them interact with others--gives you a great window into their world. You get to experience it yourself. Of course, this requires that you take the time to learn enough about your kids' interests that you can engage in the games they are passionate about.
This week, we started with the traditional board game. We found this set a few days ago and have been having fun. I am hoping to write a few more posts on this topic and to share with you some potential good resources. Stay tune!
