Why Screen Time Could Be Holding Your Child Back—And How to Fix It Fast

As mums, we all know how tempting it is to hand over a tablet or phone when you need a minute (or an hour!) of peace.

We’ve all done it—and no judgment here! But with the rise of platforms like TikTok, there’s growing concern about how much time our children are spending in front of screens and what kind of content they’re actually consuming.

What starts as innocent fun can quickly spiral into harmful trends, dangerous challenges, and mental health impacts. So how do we give them a break from screens without hearing "I’m bored" every two minutes?

At First Time Mums UK, we’re always on the lookout for screen-free alternatives that are just as engaging. That’s why we love STEM toys and DIY kits from Red Candy, which encourage learning, creativity, and quality family time—all without the worry.

Why Too Much Screen Time Is More Than Just an Eye Strain

It’s not just about tired eyes. The Children’s Society highlights how excessive screen time, particularly on platforms like TikTok, can contribute to:

• Low self-esteem

• Poor body image

• Anxiety and depression

• Sleep disturbances

And then there’s the rise of dangerous online challenges. According to reports by Fox News, children are being exposed to risky trends on TikTok, with challenges ranging from dangerous pranks to life-threatening stunts like the "Blackout Challenge" and "Benadryl Challenge". It’s scary stuff.

No wonder so many of us are asking—what’s the alternative?

The Power of Hands-On Play: What Kids (And Parents!) Are Doing Instead

The antidote? Activities that are just as exciting but far healthier—like STEM and DIY kits that encourage kids to create, build, and problem-solve in the real world.

Here’s why they’re a game-changer:

• Boost problem-solving and critical thinking

• Improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills

• Encourage creativity and imaginative play

• Build patience and focus (without them realising!)

• And most importantly? They help develop confidence in their own abilities.

But what really stood out to us when exploring these kinds of toys is the bonding opportunity they create. Sitting down with your child to build something together—whether it’s a windmill, a robot, or a working lamp—gives you precious quality time. No distractions. Just you, them, and a shared sense of accomplishment.

One brand we’ve recently discovered that really gets this right is Red Candy. They offer a range of quirky, creative STEM and DIY kits designed not only to keep kids busy but to bring families together. These aren’t just toys—they’re experiences.

A few of our favourites?

• DIY Mini Wooden Lamp Kit: Perfect for little engineers in the making. They can build their own working lamp while learning how circuits work—plus, it makes a cute addition to their room! They want a lamp, ok build it and then use it – imagine how much you can brag and how their self-confidence will be?

• Dinosaur T-Rex DIY Kit: A fun, hands-on way to teach children while they build and bring their very own walking T-Rex to life. It’s a brilliant mix of education and excitement

  
  

• DIY Tulip Night Light kit: A simple yet brilliant introduction, Kids will love assembling this charming night light, and once it’s complete, they’ll feel a real sense of pride every time they switch it on. It’s a lovely combination of practical learning and decorative fun!

These kinds of interactive projects don’t just keep kids away from screens. They give them real, tangible rewards and a sense of accomplishment they’ll carry with them.

Check out Red Candy’s full STEM & Educational Toys collection here.

Why It Matters Now More Than Ever

With so much of childhood happening online, it’s never been more important to offer real-life experiences that help kids grow their creativity, confidence, and independence. The wrong content on social platforms can impact mental health in ways we’re still learning about—but the right hands-on experiences can build resilience, skills, and a genuine love of learning.

At First Time Mums UK, we’re all about creating communities where our children can thrive, create, and grow—offline. And we think Red Candy’s STEM kits are a great place to start – it is First time mum approved!

Ready to Make the Switch?

If you’re looking for an easy way to balance screen time and give your kids something meaningful to do, we highly recommend giving STEM and DIY kits a try.

These activities aren’t just about learning—they’re about connecting, exploring, and building memories that last.

Worried about too much screen time? You’re not alone! Join the Red Candy community, where first-time mums are sharing fun, creative ways to keep little ones engaged—and away from endless scrolling

Author: Red Candy

Instagram: @redcandyuk