Raising Screen-Savvy Kids: Takeaways from Ashiana Housing’s Digital Wellness Parenting Workshop
In today’s hyper-connected world, managing screen time for children has become one of the biggest challenges for modern parents. Recognizing this, Ashiana Housing, in collaboration with renowned parenting coach Swati Gupta, hosted an insightful session on "Screen Time & Digital Wellness for Kids"—a first-of-its-kind initiative designed to empower families with practical tools for healthier digital habits.
Why Digital Wellness Matters Today
As screens become omnipresent—from online classes to gaming and social media—children are spending an increasing number of hours plugged in. While technology has its benefits, unregulated screen time can affect everything from sleep cycles and concentration to emotional development. The parenting session organized by Ashiana Housing focused on equipping parents to address this challenge through awareness, structure, and creative engagement, ultimately promoting a more balanced and mindful lifestyle at home. Event Highlights: A Screen-Time Reset for Families
The session was highly interactive and action-oriented, led by Swati Gupta, founder of Joyful Parenting Club and author of Give Your Child Wings. Parents and children participated in hands-on activities like: - Digital Goal Setting Worksheets
- Screen-Free Zone Checklists
- 14-Day Digital Detox Challenge
- Family Movie Recommendations
- YouTube and Podcast Playlists by Age Group
Swati encouraged families to co-create a “digital wellness plan” that would reduce screen dependency and strengthen parent-child connections. Building Healthy Habits, Screen-Free Zones Checklist
As part of the workshop, families were introduced to the Screen-Free Zones Checklist to create cozy, device-free spaces at home. Here are the suggested zones: - Bedroom: No screens after bedtime.
- Dining Table: Let’s talk, not scroll!
- In the Car: Enjoy the ride or chat with family.
- Study Zone: Homework heroes only!
- Family Time: Dedicate 1 hour daily to no-screen fun.
This simple yet impactful checklist helps foster meaningful interactions and a healthy balance between screen time and real-life connections. Fun-Filled Alternatives to Screen Time
One of the key takeaways from the workshop was that screen-free doesn’t have to mean boring. The team curated a diverse set of recommendations: - Movies that Inspire The curated list of Bollywood and English family-friendly films, from Taare Zameen Par to The Mitchells vs. The Machines, highlighted emotional intelligence, teamwork, and resilience.
- YouTube Channels for Every Age Whether it’s Ms. Rachel for toddlers, or TED-Ed and Crash Course for teens, the session provided a well-rounded list of safe and educational YouTube channels.
- Podcasts to Spark Curiosity Podcasts like Brains On!, Circle Round, and I Am Not Bored were suggested to make learning screen-free and fun.
- Mini Activity Packs & Worksheets From journaling to crafts, kids were encouraged to explore hobbies and meaningful offline experiences.
Ashiana’s Commitment to Holistic Community Living
This session is just one of the many parenting and wellness initiatives by Ashiana Housing aimed at nurturing homes and strong, connected communities. By going beyond real estate and supporting mindful living, Ashiana continues to prioritize resident well-being, child development, and positive parenting. Here’s what some participating parents had to say: “This was eye-opening. I finally have a practical plan to reduce my child's screen addiction.” “Loved the curated content and movies. We’re making Saturday night movie time a new family tradition!”