Screen-free Activities to Keep Kids Engaged

Screen-free Activities to Keep Kids Engaged

Children learn by doing. By engaging in hands-on exploration. Playing. Doing practical, real-life tasks. By interaction. Spending too much time engaging in on-screen activities takes away from the time children have to spend each day on the things that really matter.

Here's a bunch of creative ideas to keep your kids entertained (and out of your hair) in these lockdown times and beyond.

1. Snail hunting

The rains are upon us and this is the season where snails thrive. If you have a backyard or garden, allow your kids to hunt for snails, keep and fend for them as pets.

This not only brings them closer nature, it helps them develop a sense of responsibility as they fend for their new pets. Remember to always have them wash their hands after caring for their pets.

2. Make a bird feeder

A birdfeeder offers dual distractions away from the screen. First of all, help your little one paint their own wooden bird feeder. Secondly, hang the birdfeeder somewhere visible from a window and teach your child the joys of birdwatching.

 3. Make food together

Depending on their age, your kid(s) may not be trusted to chop veggies or slice meat, but you can still find ways to get them involved in the kitchen so you can spend quality time together! Find small tasks for them to complete, such as adding a pinch of salt or stirring ingredients together.

4. Watch the clouds

On a nice, clear day, grab a blanket and head outdoors to lay down and watch the clouds. Take turns describing the clouds you see to each other—you’ll be amazed at the creativity your child has!

 5. Plant a garden

A garden is a great way for your child to learn about the world around them, plus help instill routines and chores into their daily life. Help them research what they need to create a flower or vegetable garden, then entrust them with the task of planting, watering and pruning their creation.

6. Write a book

A collection of short stories or even a novel will keep your child preoccupied while also fine-tuning their writing skills and stretching their imagination. And who knows? They might just discover writing is a new favorite pastime! 

While they might need a bit of support if any of these ideas is new to them, rest assured that it gets easier and you will be stunned at just how creative kids can be.

By teaching kids to limit screen time you are teaching them to cure their own boredom, and in doing so, are setting them up with great skills and habits for life.