Screen Time or Smart Time?
Choosing apps that truly help your kids grow
“Too much screen time”. This is every parent’s worry at some point. We know kids love their devices, and honestly, screens can sometimes feel like lifesavers when you need a moment of peace. But here’s the big question: is all screen time bad, or can it actually be good for your child’s growth?
The truth is: not all screen time is created equal. The difference lies in whether it’s just time spent or time well spent.
Screen Time vs. Smart Time
- Passive screen time: mindless scrolling, endless videos, or apps that only entertain without teaching.
- Smart screen time: activities that encourage thinking, problem-solving, creativity, or emotional growth.
In other words, one hour of silly videos might keep your child busy, but one hour of a brain-building game can boost memory, focus, and even resilience.
Choosing the right apps
- Here are a few quick checks for parents:
- Look for purpose. Does the app teach a skill, spark curiosity, or promote wellbeing?
- Check engagement. Is your child actively solving, creating, or exploring instead of just watching?
Balance matters. Pair screen time with offline play, outdoor time, and family moments.
Screens are here to stay, and that’s not a bad thing! The key is guiding kids toward smart screen time that helps them grow, not just stare. With the right apps, screen time can become learning time, playtime, and even bonding time.
Because when used wisely, technology is a tool that can help our kids shine brighter.
What Went Well? A simple activity to boost your child’s positivity
As parents, we want our children to grow up happy, resilient, and confident. One of the simplest ways to nurture this is by teaching them to notice the good things in their day.
Enter: the ‘What Went Well?’ activity, a fun and quick way to build positivity and resilience.
Here’s how it works
At the end of the day (after school, or before bedtime), sit with your child and simply ask: ‘What went well today?’
Encourage them to share 2-3 things, big or small. For example:
- I made a new friend in school.
- I solved a difficult puzzle all on my own.
- My teacher liked my drawing.
What’s great is, you can join in too! Share your positive moments so your child knows it’s something everyone can share.
