Too much screen time can hurt kids' development. It impacts focus, social skills, and creativity while increasing risks of mental and physical health issues. Instead of scrolling, kids can benefit from entrepreneurship, which builds problem-solving, financial literacy, communication, and resilience.
Key Takeaways:
- Screen Time Risks: Excessive use can lead to attention problems, language delays, and emotional challenges.
- Entrepreneurship Benefits: Teaches budgeting, teamwork, and leadership while boosting confidence.
- Real-Life Stories: Kids like Omari McQueen and Nina Devani turned ideas into thriving businesses.
- Getting Started: Start simple - lemonade stands, craft sales, or My Lil Startup kits.
Help your child swap passive screen time for hands-on business skills that prepare them for the future.
Kid Entrepreneurs: Entrepreneurial Lessons that Make EVERYTHING Easier for Kids!
The Problems with Excessive Screen Time
While screens provide many conveniences and learning opportunities, overusing them can interfere with children's development. It's important to understand these challenges and adjust media habits to encourage more active and engaging activities.
Physical and Mental Health Effects
Spending too much time in front of screens can lead to a range of physical issues, like eye strain, neck and shoulder pain, back problems, and even childhood obesity due to reduced physical activity. The mental health effects are just as alarming. Teenagers who spend over seven hours a day on screens are twice as likely to face depression or anxiety, seek help from mental health professionals, or rely on medication for psychological challenges. Alarmingly, adolescents using digital devices for more than five hours daily are 70% more likely to experience suicidal thoughts or behaviors compared to those with less than an hour of screen time.
"The brain is being altered by excessive screen time. The psychological impact is real - and lasting."
Even younger children aren't immune. Elementary school students who spend more than two hours a day on screens - whether watching TV, gaming, or using smartphones - are more prone to emotional, social, and attention-related difficulties. Since the pandemic, screen time for kids has nearly doubled, with those aged 8–18 now spending an average of 7.5 hours daily on entertainment screens. Of this, about 4.5 hours are spent watching TV, which adds up to roughly 114 days a year.
These physical and mental health concerns highlight the importance of encouraging activities that engage children in more hands-on, interactive ways.
Passive vs. Active Screen Use
Not all screen time is created equal. Passive screen use - like watching videos or scrolling through content without interaction - lacks the developmental benefits of active engagement. For instance, children who passively watch videos or consume content miss opportunities to build essential skills. Research shows that toddlers who spend more time watching videos tend to know fewer words; every extra hour of screen time can reduce vocabulary by six to eight words. Additionally, watching more than two hours of TV daily increases the risk of language delays sixfold.
Sleep is another area that suffers. A 2012 study revealed that just 30 minutes of interactive screen use can disrupt sleep quality, while it takes two hours of passive screen time to have a similar effect. While active screen time can promote creativity and learning when used thoughtfully, finding a balance with screen-free activities is essential for fostering social interaction and hands-on learning.
Lost Opportunities for Development
Excessive screen use doesn't just pose health risks; it also takes away opportunities for personal growth. Today, children are introduced to screens at a much younger age - dropping from four years old in 1970 to just four months old now. This early exposure can have long-term academic effects. For example, every additional hour of TV exposure at age two is linked to a 7% decrease in class participation and a 6% drop in math skills by fourth grade.
Social and emotional development also takes a hit. Spending too much time on screens can hinder a child's ability to recognize facial expressions and pick up on social cues - key elements for developing empathy. As Harvard Neuroscientist Charles Nelson points out:
"Until babies develop language, all communication is non-verbal, so they depend heavily on looking at a face and deriving meaning from that face. Is this person happy with me, or are they upset at me?"
- Charles Nelson, Harvard Neuroscientist
Brain scientist Patricia Kuhl adds:
"What we've discovered is that little babies, under a year old, do not learn from a machine... You get genius learning from a live human being, and you get zero learning from a machine."
- Patricia Kuhl, Brain Scientist
When children spend excessive time on screens, they miss out on face-to-face interactions that teach them how to interpret body language, facial expressions, and other non-verbal cues. These skills are vital for building empathy and understanding others. Additionally, constant screen stimulation can make it harder for kids to develop patience, manage frustration, and control impulses.
The solution isn't to eliminate screen time entirely but to strike a balance. Hands-on, real-world activities - like entrepreneurship - can help children build resilience, spark creativity, and develop essential life skills that screens alone can't provide.
How Entrepreneurship Builds Life Skills
Entrepreneurship provides kids with a unique opportunity to develop essential life skills through real-world, hands-on experiences. Unlike passive screen time, it encourages active learning by nurturing problem-solving abilities, creativity, and decision-making.
Skills Kids Learn Through Entrepreneurship
When children tackle entrepreneurial challenges, they sharpen their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Facing real-world scenarios pushes them to analyze situations and come up with innovative solutions.
"Entrepreneurship helps children develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by presenting them with real-world challenges that require thoughtful solutions." - Matthew Toren, Co-founder of Kidpreneurs.org
Financial literacy becomes a natural part of the process as kids manage their business finances. They learn to budget by tracking expenses, understand profit and loss through sales, and explore investment decisions when reinvesting earnings. Studies show that children involved in entrepreneurial activities are more likely to grow into financially responsible adults.
Communication and social skills are honed through customer interactions, supplier negotiations, and teamwork. Kids practice articulating their ideas, adjusting their communication styles for different audiences, and listening to feedback - skills that are invaluable in school, work, and personal life.
Persistence and resilience come into play when things don’t go as planned. Whether it’s a product that doesn’t sell or a marketing effort that falls flat, kids learn to see setbacks as opportunities to grow rather than failures.
Employers value these abilities. The National Association of Colleges and Employers found that 91% of employers prioritize problem-solving skills when hiring. Similarly, the World Economic Forum highlights creativity, critical thinking, and resilience as among the top skills needed by 2025. Entrepreneurship naturally cultivates these traits, giving kids a head start.
Practical Benefits for Children
Entrepreneurship doesn’t just teach skills - it builds confidence and independence. Kids see their ideas take shape and learn to take responsibility for their decisions. They develop time management skills, set priorities, and follow through on commitments, creating a strong sense of personal accountability that benefits all areas of their lives.
"Teaching children about entrepreneurship at a young age can have a profound impact on their development... More importantly, entrepreneurship encourages creativity and innovation, helping kids view challenges as opportunities for growth." - Adam Toren, Co-founder of Kidpreneurs.org
Leadership abilities also emerge as kids coordinate tasks, delegate responsibilities, and inspire others to support their vision. Whether it’s organizing a local fundraiser or running a small online shop, they learn how to guide a team toward shared goals.
A 2022 Gallup survey revealed that students involved in entrepreneurship programs were 34% more likely to develop leadership skills and 41% more likely to feel prepared for future careers. Additionally, learning to navigate both success and failure teaches kids how to turn obstacles into stepping stones for future achievements.
Success Stories of Young Entrepreneurs
Real-life examples show how entrepreneurship can transform young lives. Take Sydney Day Weikar, who started a greeting card business at 13 with just $200. By 16, she had significant sales and taught herself shipping logistics through YouTube and design skills via online classes.
Then there’s Nina Devani, who created "Prompt Me Nina", a password reminder app, at age 14 after her father’s Facebook account was hacked. Without coding knowledge, she hired developers and managed the project. Her app’s success earned her a spot on the shortlist for the NatWest Everywoman Awards in 2014. Today, she employs five people and works with 10 consultants, proving how early entrepreneurial experience can lead to scalable ventures.
Henry Patterson turned his love for storytelling into a business by writing "Adventures of Sherb and Pip" at age 10. He later launched Not Before Tea, an online store selling bags, toys, and children’s books. By 15, his products were in over 60 UK stores, and he even secured an animation deal.
Omari McQueen began cooking at age 7 and now runs Dipalicious, a vegan Caribbean catering company. He became the UK’s youngest TV chef with his CBBC show, What’s Cooking Omari?. His story highlights how early passions can grow into thriving careers.
These young entrepreneurs have gained skills that extend far beyond business. As entrepreneur Gigi Robinson explains, entrepreneurship teaches "marketing, communication, strategy, and personal branding - skills that translate into any professional environment".
The journey isn’t always easy, but the lessons learned are invaluable. Teen entrepreneur Ila Desai shared, "There were moments when I felt completely stuck - like no one was interested and I was just spinning my wheels. But I kept reaching out to potential mentors and partners, and eventually, I found the right people who believed in the program and helped me move it forward". Her story underscores how perseverance and a problem-solving mindset can open doors.
With automation expected to transform half of today’s work activities by 2055, creating new roles and challenges, entrepreneurial skills equip kids with the adaptability they’ll need to thrive in an ever-changing future.
sbb-itb-a46f019
How to Start Entrepreneurship at Home
Helping your child explore entrepreneurship from home can be both rewarding and educational. It starts with simple, age-appropriate activities that align with their interests, combined with steady support and guidance. The goal is to spark creativity while teaching fundamental business skills.
Simple Ideas for Different Ages
Young entrepreneurs (ages 6-8) benefit from hands-on activities where they can see quick results. A classic lemonade stand is a great starting point, introducing them to basic ideas like customer service, handling money, and calculating profits. Selling crafts, such as bookmarks or bracelets, is another option. These activities help kids understand the connection between effort and earnings while building confidence through customer interactions.
Middle-grade kids (ages 9-12) are ready for more complex projects that require planning and commitment. For example, they could bake treats and sell them door-to-door in a mobile bake sale. Pet-sitting or plant-sitting are excellent options for children who love animals or nature, teaching responsibility and time management. Creative kids might enjoy designing and selling greeting cards, either online or at local events.
Real-life examples show what’s possible when kids start early. Gabby Goodwin turned her frustration with hair barrettes into a business by creating a double-snap barrette with her mom, solving a common problem. Nic Bianchi discovered his entrepreneurial spirit after receiving a candle-making kit for his 12th birthday, transforming a hobby into a thriving business.
Tech-savvy kids can explore digital opportunities, like creating content for YouTube or TikTok. They could focus on product reviews, tutorials, or demonstrations. For example, Samaira Mehta began coding at age six and developed CoderBunnyz, a board game that teaches coding to kids, proving that even advanced skills can lead to successful ventures. Peer-to-peer tutoring is another great option for academically strong kids who can help classmates or younger students.
Flexibility is a hallmark of these activities. Riley Kinnane-Petersen started her jewelry business by repurposing old jewelry parts, showing how creativity and resourcefulness can lead to unique products. As one parent put it:
"Entrepreneurship is a fun family activity that has learning built in - Riley still runs her business with her dad. It's a way for kids to make money to save for college (or Nerf Blasters) and discover new passions".
These projects not only engage children but also offer a constructive alternative to excessive screen time.
Using My Lil Startup Entrepreneur Kits
For parents looking for a structured way to teach entrepreneurship, My Lil Startup kits provide a complete, hands-on experience. These kits simplify the process while teaching practical skills through fun activities.
The Starter Kit ($39.95) comes with 20 pre-made slimes, decorations like glitter and charms, a success instruction book, marketing flyers, thank-you cards, and a sales tracker. Kids can sell the slimes for $5 each, potentially earning $100 while learning the basics of running a business.
The Growth Bundle ($59.95) includes everything in the Starter Kit plus a professional tablecloth, creating a polished setup for sales and emphasizing the importance of presentation.
The Mogul Bundle ($99.95) takes it a step further, offering everything in the Growth Bundle along with a refill kit for making 40 additional slimes. This option is perfect for kids who want to grow their business or continue learning through extended practice.
Parents have shared glowing feedback about these kits. Stephanie Felzenberg said:
"Everything they need to make and sell their favorite sensory experience is included in this kit. This is a brilliant way to teach kids how to be entrepreneurs this summer".
Tim Ortiz remarked:
"It's fascinating to see young, fearless minds engaging in this kind of activity... the residual benefits were massive developmentally, and for our relationship. Besides the fact that it pays for itself".
Another parent, Melissa, added:
"I was blown away by the My Lil Startup Entrepreneur Kit! They thought of everything to make it a fun, easy and seamless experience for kids and parents. My kids learned so much using this kit!! The guidebooks were engaging and practical. I highly recommend My Lil Startup for any aspiring kid entrepreneurs!!".
These kits encourage outdoor selling, helping kids develop social skills through face-to-face interactions while reducing screen time. Tools like the sales tracker teach kids to monitor their progress and understand basic business metrics, while marketing materials introduce them to promotion and customer communication.
Supporting Hands-On Learning
Once your child has launched their venture, ongoing support is key to deepening their learning. Set up a dedicated space for creativity, stocked with supplies and materials, and encourage brainstorming as part of their daily routine. When they face challenges, guide them to think through solutions rather than providing immediate answers.
Teach resilience by framing failures as opportunities to learn. If a product doesn’t sell or a marketing effort doesn’t work, help them analyze what went wrong and come up with improvements. Praise their effort and problem-solving, not just their successes.
Introduce financial literacy by helping them manage the money they earn. Teach them how to calculate profit (revenue minus expenses), budget for supplies, and save a portion of their earnings. Everyday activities like grocery shopping can also be turned into budgeting lessons.
Develop communication skills by encouraging kids to explain their business ideas, practice sales pitches, and interact with customers. Role-playing different scenarios - like handling tough customers or highlighting product benefits - can prepare them for real-world interactions and build confidence for school presentations or future careers.
Inspire them with real examples of entrepreneurs who overcame obstacles. Read books about young business owners, attend local business events, or arrange for them to meet community entrepreneurs who can serve as mentors.
Help set realistic goals while keeping the experience fun. Explain that building a business takes time and effort, and that setbacks are normal. Celebrate small milestones to keep their motivation high.
Create accountability systems using tools like goal-setting worksheets, sales trackers, and regular progress check-ins. These teach responsibility and show kids the value of consistent effort in achieving their goals.
Balancing guidance with independence is the key to fostering hands-on learning. Provide the tools and support they need, but let them make decisions, experience outcomes, and learn from their journey. This approach builds the skills and confidence they’ll need for entrepreneurship and other challenges in life.
Balancing Screen Time with Business Activities
Finding the right balance between screen time and entrepreneurial pursuits doesn't mean ditching technology entirely. Instead, it's about using screens intentionally while emphasizing hands-on activities that nurture practical skills. With the right strategies, parents can guide their kids toward a healthy relationship with technology while encouraging their entrepreneurial ambitions. This approach seamlessly connects digital engagement with real-world experiences, reinforcing the importance of skill-building.
Setting Family Rules
Establishing clear rules around screen time can create space for entrepreneurial activities to thrive. By building on earlier insights about active learning, families can make balancing these activities much easier. Consistent and well-communicated rules are key.
Start with your "why." Denaye, founder of Simple Families, suggests parents first reflect on the reasons behind allowing screen time. For example, if screen time is needed for a break, this understanding can help set thoughtful limits[21].
Set fixed times for screen use. Clearly separating screen time from other activities helps kids focus better. Knowing when they can use screens allows them to fully engage in non-screen activities, making it easier to plan business projects around these schedules.
Avoid shaming kids for enjoying screens. Instead, acknowledge their enjoyment while explaining why balance is important. Denaye offers an example of what to say:
"Watching movies and shows is really fun. I can understand why you enjoy it so much. I like it too! But as your mom, it's my job to keep your brain and body healthy. To do that, I have to make sure you are moving your body and using your brain as much as possible. So we aren't going to have any more screen time today, because I have to do my job."[21]
Create screen-free zones and times. These naturally encourage other activities. For example, the American Academy of Pediatrics advises keeping screens away during meals to promote conversation and out of bedrooms at least an hour before bedtime.
Avoid using screen time as a reward or punishment. Treat it as just one activity among many, ensuring entrepreneurial projects are equally valued.
Involve kids in setting family rules. As Caring for Kids notes, families should "agree on basic screen use rules that everyone understands and shares". This approach encourages cooperation and buy-in.
Teaching Kids Time Management
Entrepreneurship teaches valuable business skills, but time management is just as important. Helping kids manage their time effectively ensures they can balance work, play, and screen use without constant supervision.
Explain how activities affect focus. Denaye uses a memorable analogy, comparing screen time to "marshmallows" - fun but not very nourishing in the long run[21].
Encourage self-regulation. On average, U.S. children aged 8–12 spend 4–6 hours on screens daily, while teens can hit up to 9 hours. Teaching kids to recognize when they've had enough helps them develop self-control for the future.
Use visual schedules. A clear daily plan that includes screen time and entrepreneurial tasks helps kids see how their time is divided. This can include periods for planning, working, and reflecting on their projects.
Teach prioritization. Help kids decide what's most important, like achieving a small project goal versus casual screen use.
Model good time management. Kids learn by watching, so be mindful of your own screen habits, especially during family time or while helping with their projects.
Use timers. Timers can help kids monitor how they spend their time, much like My Lil Startup kits use sales trackers to measure business progress.
Solving Common Problems
Even with the best intentions, challenges can arise when trying to balance screen time and entrepreneurial activities. These strategies can help keep both experiences positive:
If interest wanes, avoid offering extra screen time as a quick fix. Instead, work together to troubleshoot the business approach. This could mean tweaking customer interactions, adding a creative twist to a product, or simply taking a short break.
If transitions from screen time to business activities are tough, make the shift gradual. A 10-minute warning before ending screen time, followed by a short transition activity, can make the change smoother.
When screen time causes conflict, calmly refer back to family rules. Dr. Emily Johnson, a pediatric psychologist, explains, "Technology is a double-edged sword. When used mindfully, it can be an incredible tool for learning. But without moderation, it can have negative effects on mental and physical health." Use these moments to discuss balance, not to argue.
Handle "I'm bored" complaints by keeping a list of business-related activities ready. Ideas might include brainstorming product ideas, organizing supplies, practicing sales pitches, or researching what other young entrepreneurs are doing. Keeping tasks varied and age-appropriate can maintain their interest.
If business tasks feel overwhelming, break them into smaller steps. For example, if a child is frustrated with their lemonade or slime business, focus on improving one aspect - like perfecting a recipe or designing eye-catching signs.
Address peer pressure by encouraging kids to share the benefits of their entrepreneurial efforts. When friends talk about the latest video game or show, they can proudly share updates about their business.
Have backup plans. For days when business activities don’t go as planned - whether due to weather or supply issues - have alternative tasks ready to avoid defaulting to excessive screen time.
Both screen time and entrepreneurial activities can contribute positively to your child’s development when used thoughtfully. By creating balance, you can help them grow both their skills and their sense of responsibility.
Conclusion: Helping Kids Succeed Beyond the Screen
Encouraging entrepreneurship over excessive screen time can have a lasting impact on your child's future. While the average child spends about seven hours a day engaged with media, entrepreneurship offers a hands-on alternative that builds critical life skills through active learning.
We've explored how entrepreneurship ignites creativity and problem-solving, equipping kids with tools to navigate the challenges of an ever-changing world. Unlike passive screen use, running a small business encourages kids to think critically, stay engaged, and take initiative.
Take Chloe, for example. At just eleven years old, she transformed her lemonade stand into a slime business, earning over $100 in about an hour. This simple shift highlighted her potential and showed how the right opportunity can inspire kids to thrive.
Starting this journey doesn’t have to be complicated. My Lil Startup kits make it easy for kids aged 6–12 to kick off their own slime business. These kits include everything from pre-made slime and decorations to marketing materials and sales trackers. Starting at $39.95 for the Starter Kit, they provide a complete business experience without overwhelming parents or kids. Plus, families have found that these kits not only reduce screen time but also encourage valuable hands-on learning.
"This experience teaches kids confidence, resourcefulness, money management, and other important life skills." – My Lil Startup
Of course, balance is key. As education technology expert Kecia Ray points out:
"Excessive screen time is concerning, but when used for education, it can be beneficial"
With the right tools and support, parents can spark their child's interest by choosing a kit that excites them, guiding them through the process, and cheering them on. Entrepreneurship nurtures talents and hobbies while imparting practical skills that will benefit kids for years to come.
FAQs
How can parents help their kids swap excessive screen time for fun entrepreneurial activities?
To guide kids away from excessive screen time and toward entrepreneurial activities, start by setting specific goals and establishing a structured daily routine that includes time for hands-on projects. Encourage them to dive into small business ventures, like creating crafts to sell or offering simple neighborhood services. These activities can ignite their curiosity and give them a sense of responsibility.
Make the process enjoyable by involving them in family business tasks or age-appropriate challenges. For instance, let them design a logo or brainstorm ideas for a product. These activities not only enhance their problem-solving abilities and creative thinking but also help build independence and self-confidence. By gradually replacing screen time with engaging, purposeful activities, kids can develop important life skills while still enjoying the process!
What are some fun and age-appropriate business ideas for kids at different stages of development?
For kids aged 5 to 8, engaging in simple and enjoyable activities like running a lemonade stand, hosting a bake sale, or creating and selling crafts can be a fantastic way to introduce them to basic business ideas. These hands-on experiences not only spark creativity but also teach them about handling money and help build their confidence.
For older kids and teens, more complex ventures can be a great fit. Selling handmade products online, offering neighborhood services like lawn care or pet sitting, or even starting a small business can sharpen skills like budgeting, customer service, and marketing. These activities match their growing capabilities and encourage independence, teamwork, and problem-solving.
How does entrepreneurship prepare kids for success in their future careers?
Entrepreneurship gives kids a chance to pick up important life skills that can shape their future. When children dive into their own projects, they naturally start building abilities like critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. They also get better at communicating, staying flexible, and gaining the confidence to face challenges directly.
These skills do more than just prepare kids for a fast-moving world - they lay the groundwork for fresh ideas and leadership. Encouraging your child to explore entrepreneurship helps them grow into independent and resilient individuals, traits that will benefit them no matter what career path they follow.
