As parents, we all know how easy it is for little ones to get glued to screens. While technology has benefits, too much screen time can impact their social skills, creativity, and physical health. If you're looking for ways to encourage more hands-on play and learning, here are engaging activities that will keep your child entertained while reducing screen time.
1. Get Creative
As a mum, I know how much our little ones love to get creative. Set up an easel with paints, crayons, or markers, and let them go wild! Whether they’re free-doodling, tracing letters, or painting their latest masterpiece, this is a great way to keep their hands busy and their minds engaged. Plus, it helps develop their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination—win-win!
2. Cooking Together Using a Kitchen Tower
One of my favourite ways to keep my child engaged (and sneak in some bonding time) is cooking together. A foldable learning tower, also called a kitchen tower, lets kids safely reach the counter so they can join in the fun. Simple tasks like mixing pancake batter, kneading dough, or cutting soft foods with a kid's knife make them feel involved while teaching valuable life skills. It’s messy, but so worth it!
3. Indoor Obstacle Course with an Indoor Play Gym
On rainy days or when it’s too cold to go outside, an indoor play gym is a lifesaver. Set up an obstacle course using climbing bars, tunnels, and soft mats to get their energy out. It keeps them moving, helps build strength and coordination, and turns screen-free time into an adventure.
4. DIY Sensory Bins
Sensory bins are a hit in my house! Fill a bin with rice, dried beans, or kinetic sand, and add scoops, small toys, or measuring cups for some hands-on exploration. This is a great way to improve hand coordination and keep little hands busy. You can even add numbers and letters to sneak in some learning.
5. Gardening for Little Hands
Getting outside is one of the best ways to cut down on screen time. Hand your child a mini gardening kit and let them dig, plant, and water their own little patch of greenery. Gardening teaches patience, responsibility, and an appreciation for nature—all while giving them a healthy dose of fresh air.
6. Role-Playing with Montessori-Inspired Play Furniture
Encourage imaginative play with a pretend kitchen, workshop, or market using multifunctional furniture. Kids love pretending to cook, fix things, or run their own shop. This kind of play builds communication skills, boosts creativity, and keeps them entertained for hours.
7. Outdoor Swing Set Adventures
A swing set is pure childhood joy. Swinging helps with balance, coordination, and even relaxation. Add in some monkey bars or a small slide to keep them active and excited about outdoor play.
8. Storytelling and Puppet Shows
Instead of turning on the TV, why not put on a puppet show? Grab some stuffed animals or puppets and create your own stories together. It’s a fantastic way to boost creativity, expand their vocabulary, and encourage expressive play.
9. Building and Engineering Play
Building blocks, magnetic tiles, or wooden planks can turn into castles, bridges, or whatever your child’s imagination dreams up. These types of activities help develop problem-solving skills, patience, and focus—all without needing a screen.
10. Nature Walks and Treasure Hunts
A simple nature walk can turn into an exciting adventure. Go on a treasure hunt and collect leaves, rocks, or flowers. Talk about their shapes, textures, and colours while exploring the great outdoors. It’s a fantastic way to engage their senses and connect with nature.
How to Reduce Screen Time Gradually
Cutting back on screens doesn’t have to be a struggle. Here’s what has worked for me:
-
Set Clear Boundaries – have screen-free zones like the dinner table and bedrooms
-
Offer Fun Alternatives – keep kids engaged with hands-on activities like the ones above
-
Be a Role Model – limit your own screen time to set a good example
-
Create a Routine – designate specific times for screens, like educational shows or family movie nights
What Happens When Kids Spend Too Much Time on Screens?
We’ve all seen the effects of too much screen time. It can lead to:
-
Delayed language and social development
-
Reduced attention span
-
Sleep disturbances
-
Increased risk of obesity due to less physical activity
-
Behavioural challenges, like frustration when screens are taken away
Detoxing from Screen Time
If your child is used to a lot of screen time, a gradual detox can help. Start by cutting back slowly and replacing screens with fun, interactive activities. Spend more time outdoors, encourage independent play, and make family time a priority.
Final Thoughts
Reducing screen time doesn’t have to feel like a daily struggle. With the right activities, kids naturally gravitate toward hands-on play and exploration. These little moments help build confidence, independence, and lifelong skills.
At Mommy’s Little Helper Co., we offer thoughtfully designed kids' furniture and accessories to make screen-free play even more fun and engaging. Explore our collection today and create a home that nurtures learning, creativity, and play!
