Promotion for Tonies.com

The struggle is real when it comes to screen time, and the likelihood of it getting easier to manage as the kids get older is slim to none.

The research stacks up, with a study finding that for every minute of screen use toddlers are exposed to at home, they hear fewer adult words, make fewer vocalisations and engage in fewer conversations with parents.

With school holidays often bringing a spike in screen time, it’s important to find ways to balance entertainment with active play and connection. So how can you realistically manage the hecticness of the Easter school holidays and keep device use in check? Here are a few suggestions from our team:

Be a screen-free role model

If they see you on your phone or tablet constantly, they’ll want to do the same. Try to limit your own screen use around impressionable young minds and engage in activities together.

Connect with nature

Autumn is our absolute favourite time of year with the crisper weather, perfect for outdoor play dates, playground time, obstacle courses and, of course, scavenger hunts.

Encourage independent play

This is where one little box with countless big adventures comes in. The Toniebox hit shelves nationwide last August and since then has gone gangbusters with parents, carers and kids alike.

This audio system for children is a padded portable speaker, but also a bedtime storyteller, and a music box – it’s essentially the ultimate companion for kids aged three and above. After a simple, one-time set up, kids pop a magnetic Tonie audio character on top and the adventures begin. They are in control the entire time thanks to the Toniebox’s tactile, intuitive controls.

There are dozens of Tonies available to suit a range of ages, interests and needs, with the selection including Disney favourites such as Elsa from Frozen, Moana, and Woody from Toy Story, to beloved characters from PAW Patrol and Peppa Pig, plus Tonies such as The Gruffalo, The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

The beauty of the tonies® experience is there is a Tonie for every stage of your child’s development. Think of it as a little learning engine helping to accelerate language learning and listening skills from an early age.

Once the school holidays have come to an end, the Toniebox can help with:

• The daily routine: Yes, really! If CoComelon is a hit in your household, then Getting Ready with JJ Tonie will be a life saver when it comes to the morning routines. There is literally a track called Getting Ready for School!
• After school play: Set up a cozy nook, whether in the bedroom or another small space, and add a selection of books, soft lighting and comfy cushions for a magical storytelling spot. Also, an excellent idea for the holidays.
• Wind down at the end of the day with a whole range of Tonies. Our pick is the Mindfulness: Meditation with Mo the Sloth Tonie. Mo will help little listeners unwind while taking them to parts of the world they never knew existed.
• Bedtime is the bane of many a parent’s existence, but the Toniebox can alleviate the stress of settling your little one by creating a predictable routine. Plus, the lure of letting them pick their own Tonie for story time is all the incentive some littlies need to put their PJs on.

For more information on the Toniebox, Tonies and a full list of retailers, visit tonies.com.

Article supplied by Tonies.com.

Main image courtesy of creator @elizabeththomen

See more:

• Kidspot’s guide to the school holidays
• 50 play ideas from Kiwi parents
• Encouraging development through play