In a world full of screens, from tablets to smartphones, it is becoming increasingly difficult to balance screen time with outdoor play. Many parents want their children to enjoy the healthy adventure outside, rather than spend hours staring at a screen. At Rebel Cactus, we understand this. We, too, think it's important for children to be protected from the negative influence of smartphones and social media. The people behind Rebel Cactus are big fans of outdoor play and sports. However, technology is a part of life today and the trick is to find a middle ground in that together. That's why we designed the Rebel Cactus GPS smartwatch for kids: a "first phone" that helps kids stay connected with parents outside, while parents can keep an eye on screen time. How? We'd love to explain that to you!
1. Why outdoor play is so important (and more fun!)
At Rebel Cactus, we believe kids need space. Space to run, climb, and explore. Space to make mistakes and learn from them. Outdoor play is not only healthy, but educational, promotes creativity, and increases self-confidence. Outdoor play is important for physical and mental development. Fresh air, running, climbing and exploring with friends - no game can beat that. It is super important as a parent to find a healthy balance between screen time and active time outside.
2. The role of the Rebel Cactus Smartwatch
Our Rebel Cactus GPS smartwatch can help with that! While the smartwatch provides access to fun apps in the secure App Store such as music via Spotify and translation with SayHi, it allows parents to monitor their children's screen time. Note: we deliberately say control, because you as parents have the freedom to make arrangements with your child about when and how long they play on their smartwatch. That way you keep an overview without having to micromanage. Ideal, right?
3. Tips for making agreements about screen time
Making agreements about screen time doesn't have to be strict or boring at all. Here are a few playful tips:
- Make a schedule: Together with your child, decide on set times when they can use their Rebel Cactus for smart games or music. For example, half an hour after school, and then go outside!
- Play outside as a reward: Why not combine the best of both worlds? When your child has played outside for a while, they can relax afterwards with a game or listen to their favorite audiobooks on the smartwatch.
- Set goals together: Kids love challenges. Set a goal together: for example, play outside for an hour every day. On the watch, your child will learn to keep track of time and tell time.
4. Safety first
Another great advantage of the Rebel Cactus smartwatch is that it is not only for fun, but also for safety. Thanks to the GPS function, parents can always see where their child is, so they can play with peace of mind. In addition, you can turn off the smartwatch during school hours. This keeps the focus in the classroom without distracting them.
5. Why control is not management
We understand that every child is different and parents handle screen time differently. The Rebel Cactus gives parents some control, but not full management power. This means you can keep an eye on things, but you don't have to decide every moment exactly how much time your child is allowed to spend. It's about making agreements together and building trust so that your child learns to take responsibility.
6. Playing outside together
Our philosophy at Rebel Cactus is simple: technology should be a tool, not a substitute for adventure! By using the Rebel Cactus smartwatch, as a parent you can balance your child's screen time while they feel safe and you can make arrangements together.
So what are you waiting for? Go outside together too, put on your adventurous shoes and let the Rebel Cactus be your partner in crime for safety and most importantly, lots of outdoor fun!
Check out our smartwatches here.
