by Eric J. Trauthwein

It’s no secret that parents wear many hats. Chef. Medic. Psychologist. Friend. Even at times, public enemy number one. This constant juggling act can be exhausting, especially when you factor in how children of all ages possess varying levels of unpredictability. As if that weren’t challenging enough, today’s parents must also navigate ongoing debates with their kids about appropriate electronic use and screen time. As technology evolves, crowded neighborhoods echoing with children’s laughter and imagination seem to grow closer to extinction with each passing generation of kids. Finding a balance between indoor tech time and outdoor playtime might be key to raising well-rounded children who turn into successful adults in the future.

The world today looks very different than it did even ten years ago. Technology is everywhere, and its development and advancement assist businesses and homes in making the complex simple and the simple routine. Meaning it has its place, even with children. In a study funded by UNICEF and the LEGO Foundation, the research found that “digital companies and game designers can and should support the well-being of children through the games they produce and demonstrates that digital play has a particularly positive impact on children’s autonomy, competence, creativity and identity when it responds to their deep interests, needs and desires.” This suggests that when designed with positive development in mind, technology, and video games in particular, can be a beneficial piece in shaping the cognitive, imaginative and innovative minds of children. The challenge, however, lies in finding the right balance. At what point does too much screen time begin to harm a child’s long-term mental and physical health, especially as sedentary behavior and constant exposure to screens become more common?

The alternative for today’s screen-obsessed child might be as simple as opening the front door. Just beyond the doorstep lies a world of endless opportunities to engage the mind, body, emotions and even spirit. According to HealthyChildren.org, regular outdoor play helps children (and adults) become physically healthier, stay more engaged in learning by fostering curiosity, creativity and focus, improves mood and behavior, and can even reduce stress and symptoms of depression, just by spending time in nature. Most children would find it hard to argue against the overall benefits of daily outdoor activities that encourage exploration and innovation, while also providing a fun and healthy outlet for releasing energy.

Simply put, children need a healthy balance of screen time and outdoor play to reach their full potential. Those who spend countless hours in front of a screen benefit from unplugging and heading outside for much-needed physical activity, which helps build gross motor skills, endurance, and allows for safe exposure to Vitamin D, essential for maintaining strong and healthy bodies. On the contrary, overly active children who only live their lives at full speed could benefit from playing age-appropriate games that challenge their minds and problem-solving skills, educate them with new concepts in a fun and engaging way, and introduce them to a digital world of communication and socializing that will help their future selves.

Like every good thing in life, moderation and balance are the keys to sustainability. That applies to the argument of indoor screen time versus outdoor playtime. When used appropriately with parental involvement and guidelines, both can be instrumental in teaching children how to mentally and physically challenge themselves so that they can continue to grow and develop. Every child is different, and every parenting approach is unique. That’s why parents and children need to work together to find the right mix—one that fosters a home environment where curiosity is encouraged, learning is continuous, and openness to new experiences is embraced.