The parents using play to stop children getting ‘trapped’ by screens
The parents using play to stop children getting ‘trapped’ by screens
The UK government has recently introduced new guidelines, advising that children under five should have no more than one hour of screen time per day, while those under two should not be left alone with devices. These recommendations highlight “screen swaps” as a strategy—replacing digital engagement with interactive activities such as reading or playing games. However, implementing this advice proves challenging for many parents.
Reconnecting through shared experiences
Errol Murray, founder of Leeds Dads, has made it his personal mission to help families rediscover meaningful interactions. Every Saturday, he leads his 10-year-old son Isaac and a group of local fathers on adventures that range from exploring natural habitats to participating in soft play sessions with meals included. “It’s a refreshing alternative to screen time,” he explains, noting a shift in his son’s behavior. “When you give them a five or ten-minute warning to stop using devices, the response is often the same: frustration, sadness, or restlessness.”
“You’ve got to find something that pulls them away from phones, screens, and tablets, because you get trapped there,” says Errol, reflecting on the importance of engaging activities.
Errol emphasizes that active participation with children, rather than passive screen-based interactions, fosters stronger bonds. For instance, his family enjoys group walks in the park, with Isaac even bringing his remote-control car along. “Doing something together instead of saying ‘see you when you get back’ allows us to build connections directly,” he adds.
Scientific insights into early language development
A recent study by Dr Samuel Forbes and Prof John Spencer at Durham University and the University of East Anglia revealed that daily playtime with children has declined by 25% since 2019. The research tracked over 6,000 hours of language exposure among 163 infants and toddlers, focusing on the quality of in-person conversations rather than screen-based speech. By using MRI scans, the team analyzed myelin levels in the children’s brains, finding that those exposed to richer interactions showed increased myelination, which enhances neural communication.
“The number of words a child hears at these early ages is literally shaping their brain,” Forbes notes. “Every interaction is crucial. It’s never too late to start talking to your child or engaging in different ways.”
Kirsty MacDonald, head of early years at the National Literacy Trust, points out that many families, especially those in financial hardship, struggle to access the resources and support needed for effective language development. She cites factors such as work demands, the cost of local activities, and the convenience of technology as barriers to reducing screen time.
Integrating screens with creativity
Sam, another member of the Leeds Dads group, shares how his family uses technology in a more meaningful way. While he admits screens are part of their routine, he pairs them with creative pursuits like music production on his tablet. “I’ve always loved music,” he says. “But as a parent, I found it hard to find personal time. Now that my children are old enough to appreciate it, it’s become a beautiful shared activity.”
“You have to just seize your moments,” Sam acknowledges. “There are definitely times where you have to go, ‘Look, everyone is tired, everyone needs a rest—the best thing for us to do is just watch some TV together.'”
Despite these challenges, some communities are experimenting with innovative approaches to balance screen time and real-world engagement. By blending technology with creativity and prioritizing quality interactions, parents are finding ways to nurture their children’s growth in a digitally connected world.
