There are a lot of less than healthy influences on the lives of modern children, and kids tend to grow up a little too fast these days. Not only is that a dangerous thing when they haven't yet developed the maturity for adult decisions, but as a parent, it can be a painful thing to see an already too short childhood pass faster than is natural.

Worst of all, if your child doesn't get enough play, they are missing out on the natural process of cognitive and physical development.

One place we can encourage a different kind of childhood is the home—here are 5 ways to provide an environment that promotes a healthier, more productive childhood.

1. Stock the Shelves

The bookshelves, that is...Too many people have lost an interest in the pastime that has done more for the human culture than perhaps any other endeavor—reading. This is a great hobby to inspire in your children, and it's best to cultivate it now before they realize no one else is doing it.

Kids get lost in books. They exercise their mind, learn about the world, learn to think for themselves, and find a place where other people talk about the problems they'll deal with in their daily lives—and how to find solutions for those problems.

I know of no better gift to give a child than a healthy love of books. They'll thank you for it later.

2. Ditch the TV

While you're at it, get rid of the television. If anything, at least get rid of the cable and save the screen for movie nights if you're budget is too tight for the cinema. We all know nothing much good comes out of a TV set.

It is a source of bad habits and influences, wasted time, and the heavy guiding hand of pop culture—something we could all do without.

When you take away the television, your home life is not thrown into the Stone Age, believe it or not. Instead, it encourages you and your family to be more creative with your time, spending it instead on hobbies or relationships. It's something that may do you a lot of good as well.

3. Stockpile Games and Art Supplies

Along with all those books, how about some games and art supplies? Since you took away the television and hopefully the video games for now, you want to make sure there are plenty of avenues for creative expression in your home.

Scrabble, Pictionary, Monopoly, and puzzles are just as fun these days as when we were kids—if not more. And learning to paint or play a musical instrument can turn into a lifelong passion and pursuit.

4. Set Up a Play Area

As mentioned before, playing is a child's natural means of developing thinking skills and keeping their body in shape. It helps them to grow into a healthier adult. Encourage active playing by creating an area in your yard just for this—a small play set is rather cheap these days and eliminates the need to bring them to the park all the time.