10 Ways to Calm Children Without Using a Tablet

It’s undeniable that screens are part of our day-to-day lives. Therefore, children are permanently in contact with them. The problem is that children are spending more and more time using these devices, even as babies. To keep them from getting bored, we put on videos that calm them down fast so they won’t bother us.

We don’t realize that this habit is actually counterproductive. Yes, we manage to calm them down in the short term. However, when we take away the screens, they become even more anxious and irritable. 

In the end, little by little, children abandon other forms of play and entertainment in exchange for technology. So, what can we do to calm children down without using tablets and other digital devices? Keep reading to find out.

Ideas for calming children without using a tablet or screen

There are many alternatives that your children can choose from that don’t involve screens. So, what can we do in order to calm babies without using tablets, etc.?

Maintain physical contact with your baby

When a baby is irritated or nervous, resist the temptation to put a video on your phone. Rather, pick up your baby and hold him for as long as needed. There’s nothing better for babies than physical contact with mom or dad. In fact, this contact is extremely important to them.

Pay attention when your baby cries

When children are very small, it’s important to pay attention when they cry and find out what’s making them uncomfortable. Perhaps your little one needs a diaper change, wants to eat, or just needs to be close to mom or dad.

The World Health Organization recommends not using technology with babies under the age of two. However, if we’re honest, we’ve all disregarded this recommendation at some point or another. However, if we tend to our babies’ needs, we’ll be able to calm them down without resorting to screen time.

A good bath

Sometimes, at home, your child may be bored or anxious and you’re not quite sure what to do. Why not prepare a warm bubble bath full of her favorite toys? Bathtime is a great way to relax children and can also be a lot of fun. And, best of all, it won’t involve any screens!

Storytime!

No matter how small children are, listening to mom or dad’s voice has a calming effect. So, when you notice that your child is anxious, nervous, or bored, read a story together. Changing your voice as you interpret different characters will make reading even more fun. And your child will quickly forget about using a tablet.

More ideas for calming children without using a tablet or phone

Now we want to look at a few ideas that you can use with other children:

Play whatever they want

Tell your children they can play whatever they want. If they get dirty, you can wash their clothes and give them a bath. Kids need to explore, experiment, and get dirty in order to learn and stimulate their cognitive development. Do let them play! It’s a million times better than giving them a screen to look at.

Put on calming music without using a tablet

You can also put on some music for your children to dance to—just make sure not to use music videos. This is another great way to keep little ones busy… and active!

Make drawings

Most children love to draw and color. So, give them paper and markers and let their imaginations fly. The next time you go out, pack a notebook and a box of colored pencils in case your child gets bored. Without a doubt, your child will ask for them at some point and stay entertained. Once more, you’ll have avoided using a tablet.

Relaxation and yoga

If you notice that your child is bored, irritated, or anxious, you can do yoga together. There are plenty of yoga exercises for kids. What’s more, it’s a way to relax, exercise, and stay busy. Another option is to put on calming music, lay down on the bed, and just relax. If necessary, you can read a few stories to help your child calm down.

Make your children laugh

For example, you can tickle your kids. They’ll have a great time because it makes them laugh and allows them to connect with their parents. Tickling and wrestling are great ways to have family fun without using a tablet. Of course, make sure nobody gets hurt.

Coloring books

There’s an infinite number of mandala books and other coloring books that will help your children concentrate and stay calm. Keep them on hand, as they’re a great tool when children are bored. Coloring calms and relaxes children while also stimulating their creativity.

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to calm and entertain children without using a tablet. The above suggestions don’t only help you avoid screen time, they also contribute to your children’s development. So, what are you waiting for!