3 Simple Ways to Make Your Kid’s Screen Time More Educational
3 Simple Ways to Make Your Kid’s Screen Time More Educational
If you are worried about how long your kids are on the computer, check out these simple ways to make your kid’s screen time more educational.
With distance learning, screen time has become a fact of life for most kids. But just because your kids are spending more time on screens doesn’t mean they can’t be learning, too. There are a variety of great ways to help your kids learn while playing on their devices. Here are five easy ways to make your kid’s screen time more educational.
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Educational Videos
There’s no doubt that kids love watching videos. And while there are tons of videos aimed at kids that are strictly for entertainment purposes, there are just as many educational videos available online. The key to finding educational videos for your kids is knowing where to look.
YouTube:
One great place to find educational videos for your kids is YouTube. Many popular educational platforms have YouTube channels dedicated to providing videos for kids to learn. On YouTube, your kids can learn science facts from Mystery Doug, learn how to draw with Mo Willems, and learn all about animals with National Geographic.
Prime Video:
Amazon’s video network also features a variety of educational videos for your kids to choose from. From baby-friendly songs from Little Baby Bum to educational cartoons from PBS Kids, there are tons of great kid-friendly programing options here.
Netflix:
Head over to Netflix to find a ton of great educational programming for your kids. You can find episodes of The Magic School Bus, Bill Nye: Science Guy, Carmen Sandiego, and Brainchild on Netflix.
Disney+:
Another great subscription service to invest in for educational videos is Disney+, which is also home to National Geographic programming.
Hulu:
For more educational videos, try checking out Hulu. The streaming service features interesting shows, like How it’s Made, along with fun shows that are also educational, like Horrible Histories.
Learning Games
Games are a fun way for your kids to pass the time while playing on their favorite device. Although there are tons of kid-friendly games out there that aren’t very educational, there are a variety of great kids’ games that force them to learn as they play.
But sometimes it can be difficult to distinguish between a game for entertainment and a game for learning. When looking for educational games for your kids, consider these factors:
Educational content:
The most important factor to consider when searching for a great educational game for your kids is to know the type of educational content it provides. Sometimes, like with math games, the educational content is readily apparent. But with other games, like Minecraft for example, the educational content may be a bit more hidden. Either way, know the type of educational content the game provides to ensure it’s meeting the needs of your child.
Easy to play:
No matter how educational a game is, if your kid isn’t able to play it on their own, it won’t do them any good. Make sure your kids are able to play the game with the skill sets they have.
Fun factor:
Again, a game can be very educational, but if it’s boring, your kid isn’t going to play it. To make the most of online games, pick games that are fun to play along with providing educational content.
Interactive Screen Time
Another great way to maximize the use of screen time with your kids is to make screen time interactive. By incorporating other people or activities into your child’s screen time, the time your child spends on their device becomes more educational. There are so many great ways to make screen time more interactive for your child:
Active games and videos:
One of the best ways to make your child’s screen time more interactive is to encourage them to get active while they watch and play. Look for videos that ask your child to get up and get moving while they watch. Or select games that incorporate real-world activities.
Get involved in the game:
Another fun way to create interactive screen time at home is to play along with your child. Look for multi-player games you can play together or take turns playing games as a team.
Watch together:
Just as playing games together is a great way to make screen time educational, watching videos, shows, and movies together is also a simple way to create interactive screen time. As you watch with your child, encourage them to think about the things they see by asking questions and developing a conversation around what’s on the screen.
Connect with others:
Your child doesn’t have to use their device in a bubble inside your home. Screen time can also be a great way to connect with others. Schedule a Zoom call with family members to stay in touch, set up an online meeting with your child’s teacher to discuss distance learning issues, or sign your child up for an online class to connect with other kids while learning at home.
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