Say Yes to a Screen-Free Childhood
Advocating for a Screen-Free Childhood: MOH’s Guidelines and Practical Tips for Families in Singapore
As parents and caregivers in an increasingly digital world, navigating screen use for young children can feel overwhelming. The recent guidelines by the Ministry of Health (MOH) on screen time offer a timely reminder of the importance of a balanced approach, urging us to protect childhood from excessive digital exposure while fostering meaningful experiences that contribute to children’s holistic development. Supporting these efforts, we should advocate for a screen-free childhood, where children’s natural curiosities are nurtured, family bonds strengthened, and imaginative play encouraged.
Why Limit Screens for Young Children?
Excessive screen time, especially for children aged 0-6, can hinder crucial developmental milestones such as language acquisition, social interaction, and physical growth. MOH's emphasis on limiting screen exposure aligns with research highlighting the benefits of face-to-face communication, unstructured play, and outdoor activities for young children. Screen-free environments allow kids to explore their surroundings, develop problem-solving skills, and build stronger emotional connections with their caregivers.
Screen-Free Alternatives in Singapore
Thankfully, Singapore offers a wealth of options to keep children meaningfully engaged without relying on screens. Here are some ideas:
Parent-Child Bonding Activities
Arts and Crafts
Create a dedicated space for crafts at home, or join parent-child workshops at places like The Artground. Making simple crafts or painting together not only builds fine motor skills but also encourages creativity and collaboration.Reading Together
Visit libraries under the National Library Board or create a cozy reading nook at home. Reading stories fosters early literacy, sparks imagination, and strengthens parent-child bonds.Outdoor Adventures
Explore Singapore’s green spaces like Gardens by the Bay or East Coast Park. Nature walks, picnics, or kite-flying are low-cost ways to encourage physical activity and curiosity about the natural world.
Keeping Kids Occupied in Common Situations
Waiting at Restaurants
Activity Kits: Pack lightweight items like coloring books, sticker sheets, or puzzles. (We have some good ones here.)
Interactive Conversations: Play word games like “I Spy” or engage in storytelling.
When Parents Are Busy
Open-Ended Play: Provide materials like building blocks, playdough, or dress-up items to inspire independent play.
Audio Stories: Preload stories or music for children to listen to while you’re occupied.
Traveling on the Go
Travel Kits: Assemble mini-activity kits with toys, magnetic puzzles, or a small whiteboard.
Storytelling: Involve children in co-creating a story about the places you’re traveling to or the sights they see.
Scavenger Hunts: Challenge them to find specific colors, shapes, or items around them during the journey.
Promoting Screen-Free Living
Ultimately, modeling screen-free behavior is key. If parents prioritize meaningful interaction and limit their own screen use, children are more likely to adopt these habits. The goal isn’t to eliminate technology entirely but to teach children that the world beyond screens is rich with possibilities for play, learning, and connection.
By embracing a screen-free childhood, we can help children grow up with stronger minds, healthier bodies, and deeper relationships. Let’s support MOH’s efforts by fostering a culture where screens become a tool—not a substitute—for learning and engagement. In Singapore, with its abundance of family-friendly spaces and activities, the opportunities for meaningful, screen-free childhoods are endless.
