Unplugged Adventures: 8 Creative and Fun Alternatives to Screen Time
Let’s face it—screens are everywhere, and while they can be a great tool, too much of anything can turn from sweet to sour (like a melted popsicle on a summer day). If you’ve found yourself asking, “How can I break the digital spell and get my kiddos back to real-world play?”—you’re in the right place!
Below are some creative, hands-on alternatives to screen time that will not only keep your little ones entertained but also ignite their imaginations, spark physical activity, and maybe even give you a breather. So, let’s dive into some screen-free fun!
1. Outdoor Adventure Bingo
Nothing says “put down the tablet” like an invitation to explore the great outdoors. Print off a nature-themed bingo card with things like “a bird flying,” “a red leaf,” “a funny-shaped cloud,” and “something that smells good.” Arm your kiddos with binoculars, magnifying glasses, or even just a sense of wonder, and send them off on a mini adventure! This gets them moving and turns ordinary walks into exciting treasure hunts. And the best part? You can join in, too!
Not into making your own bingo cards, check out these products on Amazon:
2. DIY Obstacle Course
Why watch ninjas on TV when your kids can become them in their very own backyard? Use pool noodles, pillows, jump ropes, and anything you have lying around to create a DIY obstacle course. Have them crawl, jump, hop, and balance their way to the finish line. Not only will they burn off energy, but they’ll also be using problem-solving skills to figure out how to tackle each obstacle. The winner gets the title of “Champion of the Backyard Kingdom!”
Stuck inside due to bad weather? Check out our list of the best equipment for rainy day fun.
3. Storytime Theatre
Who needs a streaming service when you’ve got your own living room stage? Encourage your kids to put on a play or puppet show. They can dress up as their favorite characters (or create new ones), build a simple backdrop from blankets and chairs, and perform for a very special audience (that’s you!). If your kids are feeling extra creative, they can even write their own script and come up with sound effects. Bonus: This activity helps build language skills and teamwork.
4. Kitchen Chemistry
Move over, YouTube science videos—your kitchen is the ultimate lab! Simple science experiments like baking soda volcanoes, rainbow milk, or making slime are fun and sneakily educational. Let your kids take on the role of mad scientist (with safety goggles, of course!) and explore how different ingredients react. They’ll be too busy experimenting to miss their screen time, and you’ll have some slimy, fun memories to share.
5. Build a Reading Nook
Turn an ordinary corner of your house into a magical reading hideaway. With a few pillows, a cozy blanket, and maybe a string of fairy lights, you can create a space where your kids will want to curl up with a book. Let them pick out stories that spark their imagination, from magical worlds to prehistoric adventures. This gives them some quiet time, and bonus—you get a peaceful moment too.
Have some extra garden or yard space? Check out our ideas for bringing books to life with storybook gardens.
6. Art Attack
Swap the tablet for a table full of arts and crafts supplies. Set out crayons, markers, paint, glue, and whatever odds and ends you have lying around (paper towel tubes make great rocket ships!). Give them a theme—like “Create Your Own Superhero” or “Draw What You Think a Dinosaur’s Dream Looks Like”—and let their imaginations take the lead. They’ll be creating masterpieces before you know it, and you can display their work like the proud art gallery curator you are.
7. Board Game Bonanza
Sometimes, old school is the way to go. Dust off those board games or card games that have been hiding in the closet and challenge your kids to some friendly competition. Games like Candy Land, Guess Who?, or even a deck of cards can be perfect for hours of screen-free family fun. And remember, it’s not just a game—playing together helps build social skills, turn-taking, and a little bit of patience (for everyone involved!).
Or try one of our tried-and-loved favorites:
8. Indoor Camping
When the weather isn’t cooperating or you just want a change of scenery, why not set up camp indoors? Drape some blankets over chairs to make a tent, grab a flashlight, and host a “campfire” storytelling session (check out our tips on crafting kid-friendly scary stories). You can even toast marshmallows over the stove and make s’mores. This cozy setup encourages imagination, and it’ll feel like you’ve taken a mini-vacation without ever leaving the house.
So next time your kiddos are reaching for their devices, toss one of these ideas their way and watch as they jump into a world of creativity, movement, and imagination. You’ll be surprised at how quickly they forget about screens when the real-world fun begins.
How do you handle screen time with your kids? Have you tried any of these alternatives, or do you have a go-to activity that works every time? Share your ideas in the comments—we’d love to hear what works for your family!
