Category: Blogs

In today’s world, children are easily distracted by electronic devices, which can have detrimental effects. As caregivers, it’s our responsibility to prioritise hands-on playtime and stimulating educational toys to help our children reach their full potential.

If you’re tired of your child being disconnected from the world around them and losing themselves in screens, we’re here to help. In this blog, we’ll offer effective strategies for reducing screen time and introducing exciting, educational toys to your child’s playtime.

Whether you prefer shopping for educational toys online or in-store, choosing and buying toys is a timeless memory that shapes childhoods.

The Screen-Time Trap: How Electronic Devices Are Affecting Children’s Development

It’s no secret that electronic devices have become a staple in modern-day life. While they can be a great source of entertainment and education, excessive screen time can have negative effects on children’s development:

• Decreased Physical Activity: Children who spend too much time on electronic devices tend to be less physically active, which can lead to health problems like obesity and poor motor skills.
• Social Isolation: Overuse of electronic devices can lead to social isolation and a lack of face-to-face interaction with peers and family members.
• Delayed Language Development: Screen time can interfere with language development, including speaking and reading skills.
• Sleep Disturbance: The blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with sleep patterns, leading to poor quality sleep and even insomnia.
• Cognitive & Behavioural Issues: Excessive screen time has been linked to issues like poor attention span, difficulty with problem-solving and even aggression in some children.

Strategies For Reducing Screen Time & Promoting Offline Playtime

• Set Screen Time Limits: Establish clear rules for electronic device usage to encourage offline playtime and reduce negative effects.
• Schedule Playtime & Activities: Plan specific times for different types of play and activities to make offline time more enjoyable and structured.
• Encourage Physical Activity: Encourage outdoor play, walks and sports for healthy development.
• Provide Educational Toys & Games: Offer engaging alternatives to electronic devices that promote learning, creativity and problem-solving skills.

Playtime With Purpose: Educational Toys & Games For Children’s Development

Educational toys promote growth and development, improving problem-solving, critical thinking and fine motor skills. They engage children in fun, interactive play and foster a lifelong love of learning.

It can be difficult to tear kids away from screens and get them excited about offline playtime. However, there are strategies you can use to engage them in fun and interactive play.

• Start by understanding your child’s interests and selecting toys that align with them.
• You can also involve your child in the selection process, allowing them to choose their own toys in-store, or online. This gives them a sense of control and ownership that helps keep them engaged.

From Virtual To Reality: Making Online Toy Shopping Just As Fun As In-Store Visits

Sometimes it’s hard to ignore the convenience of buying educational toys online and it’s possible to make the experience just as exciting as visiting a brick-and-mortar store. One way to do this is by tracking the toy online and making the delivery a special occasion. Parents can let their children know when the toy is expected to arrive and build anticipation.

Selecting toys online can be made easier by watching video reviews and unboxing videos together. Doing so gets them engaged with you even behind the screens.

Looking for exciting educational toys online or in-store? At Our Past Times, you’ll help your child or grandchild discover the toys that raised you. Say goodbye to excessive screen time and help your child reach their full potential with hands-on playtime. Shop now and let your child’s imagination run wild!