Are you struggling to get your kids off devices?

It’s become a modern phenomenon that kids are more addicted to phones, devices, TVs and computers than ever before.

And we wonder why childhood obesity is at the highest levels ever, in fact, epidemic proportions. Think about it, it seems the two things are very closely connected.

I’m not saying that our generation never played video games, watched TV or even ate junk food but it was in moderation. My friends and I used to play football and cricket day and night. We built tree houses and camped out in the woods. We got dirty, we grazed our knees, we got into mischief, but we were healthy and we were happy.

What is the root of the problem?

Go on any bus or train anywhere and you will see nearly everyone staring at their phones. I’m sorry, it’s harsh but I’ve got to say it, they look like zombies or like they’re part of some science fiction brain wash movie, scary! Just try it, look around you, you’ll quickly see that it’s true.

So why is it all connected?

Have you ever noticed that young toddlers love nothing more than playing with your phone? That is because you and all the other adults they know are always on it, fiddling with it, or playing with it, even holding it like some kind of comfort blanket. Naturally enough, a child, wanting to be just like their grown-up idols, sees it as the norm.

I even know a mother that threw an enormous party for her eight-year old with a fun disco and karaoke. She repeatedly found groups of children huddled somewhere playing a game on their tablet, instead of joining in the party. Is that what kids do together now days or more importantly, not together? It’s the same as playing solitaire with a couple of friends – it’s just not right.

My siblings and I dreamed up plays, and invented circus acts, not to mention my brother and I knocking all the render off my dad's shed with the soccer ball. The point is, we were using our legs and our imagination and interacting in creative and positive ways. I say it’s time to bring the imagination back with a bang.

YOU ARE YOUR CHILD'S HERO

It begins with you. No, it’s not Katy Perry or Pepper pig, it’s you. You are your kids biggest role model and hero. You’re the one who influences them most. So, check out a few of these little doozies that I’ve gathered together for you and give them a try. I think you’ll find it’ll be a bit of fun.

Find more fun activities on Barry’s facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Barry.S.Brun... and on the website https://www.barrybrunswickstalltales....

My latest book: The War of the Turnips
Barry S. Brunswick