Let’s face it—screens are everywhere. Tablets, phones, video games, social media… it’s a digital world, and our kids are growing up right in the middle of it. While technology has its perks, too much screen time can take a toll on kids’ sleep, mood, attention span, and even their physical health. The good news? Cutting back on screen time doesn’t have to mean meltdowns and boredom. In fact, it can be the start of some seriously fun and creative adventures.
Here are some practical, science-backed ways to encourage kids to unplug, without the struggle—and yes, they'll actually enjoy it.
1. Make a Family Tech Plan (and Let the Kids Help)
Kids are more likely to follow rules they help make. Instead of laying down strict screen time limits out of nowhere, try creating a simple Family Media Plan together. You can decide on things like no screens during meals, keeping devices out of bedrooms, or having “tech-free” hours in the evening.
Make it fun: create a colorful chart or poster and let your kids decorate it. You can even build in rewards or special family activities when the plan is followed. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, having clear boundaries around media use helps kids develop healthier habits—and feel more in control.
2. Get Hands-On with DIY Projects
Kids love to create, and hands-on projects are a fantastic way to keep them engaged and off screens. Try these simple, self-guided activities that they can do on their own or with a little help:
· Build a birdhouse or bug hotel from recycled materials
· Start a mini indoor garden (mason jar herbs are perfect)
· Make a comic book starring their favorite pet
· Invent a brand-new board game
· Create a scrapbook of family memories
These kinds of activities help boost creativity, build patience, and offer a sense of accomplishment—plus, they’re just plain fun.
3. Battle Boredom with a Boredom Jar
One of the biggest reasons kids reach for screens? Boredom. But boredom can actually be a gift—it pushes kids to get creative. Try making a “Boredom Jar” filled with screen-free ideas they can pull out whenever they’re stuck. Some ideas:
· Build a blanket fort
· Write a silly song
· Draw a treasure map and hide something
· Make up a game with sidewalk chalk
· Create a puppet show
Let your kids help fill the jar with their own ideas, too. It gives them ownership and keeps the list fresh and exciting.
4. Get Moving, Get Laughing
Screens keep kids still. Bodies are made to move. Physical play is not just great for health—it also helps regulate emotions and reduces stress. Here are a few ways to swap screen time for active fun:
· Backyard obstacle course with cushions, ropes, or cones
· Nature scavenger hunts (e.g., “find something red, bumpy, and round”)
· Family dance-offs with their favorite tunes
· Animal yoga or silly stretching
· Walk the dog or do a “mission” around the neighborhood
These activities can be as simple or silly as you want. The goal is to move, laugh, and make memories—without a screen in sight.
5. Talk About Tech (Yes, Even the Tough Stuff)
Also, be a role model. Put your phone down during meals. Read a book instead of scrolling. Let them see you choosing screen-free joy—and they’ll follow your lead.
In a Nutshell…
Helping kids use screens less doesn’t mean endless nagging or taking away everything they love. It means giving them more of what really matters—creativity, movement, imagination, connection. With a little planning and a lot of encouragement, kids can learn to enjoy life beyond the screen. And who knows? You might just find yourself unplugging right along with them.