With Bluey, Peppa Pig, and Paw Patrol all over the toy aisles, it can be a challenge to say “no” when children want to sit down in front of screens and watch these beloved programs. Busy parents sometimes find screens helpful to occupy children so they can find a quiet moment or time to get to some chores.
But when children are so young, it’s even more important that parents and caregivers model what a healthy relationship with screens looks like.
For younger kids, families can make time together and face-to-face interactions a priority as much as possible. The resources on this page can help parents and caregivers with offline ideas and tips on how to develop healthy digital habits while children are young.
Screen-free resources (0-4 years)
Prioritize offline activities and spending time together with your young child. Here are some resources for ideas:
Offline activity ideas from Fraser Health
Check out this resource from Fraser Health for offline activities to do with your kids, as well as guidance on developing healthy digital habits when kids are young.
Download PDFOffline activity ideas from Vancouver Coastal Health
This resource from Vancouver Coastal Health provides tips and other tools to help you limit young children’s screen-time.
Download PDFOffline activity ideas from Caring for Kids
This resource from Caring for Kids offers recommendations on screen use with young children, developed by Canadian pediatricians.
Download PDFOffline activity ideas from the Childhood Healthy Living Foundation
These tips from Childhood Healthy Living Foundation encourage families to be mindful of their screen use and the time they spend together.
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