20 Actually Fun Screenless Activities to Do With Your Kids
Why Screen-Free Time Matters
The winter is the hardest time for us to deviate from screens! Let’s be real—screens are everywhere, and while they can be helpful tools, sometimes we just need a break. As a mom of four, I’ve seen how easy it is for kids (and parents!) to get sucked into devices. But I’ve also learned how much better our family feels when we intentionally unplug and connect in real life.
Screen-free time isn’t about deprivation—it’s about rediscovering the joy of being present, creating memories, and having actual fun together. Whether it’s a quiet afternoon or a bustling weekend, these 20 screenless activities for kids will keep everyone engaged—and maybe even laughing.
20 Fun Screenless Activities to Try for kids
1. Create an Indoor Obstacle Course
Turn your living room into an adventure zone. Use pillows, furniture, and blankets to build tunnels, hurdles, and forts. It’s a great way to burn off energy!
2. Bake Together
Let the kids choose a recipe and help measure, mix, and decorate. From cookies to cupcakes, it’s about the process, not perfection.
3. Have a Backyard Treasure Hunt
Hide small items around your yard and make a map or give clues for the kids to find them. Bonus: You can join the fun as their guide.
4. Build a Blanket Fort
Classic and timeless. Grab blankets, pillows, and chairs, and build a cozy fort. Read books, tell stories, or just hang out inside.
5. Host a Family Game Night
Pull out board games, card games, or even charades. Pick a game everyone can enjoy, and let the competition begin!
(Related Post: How to Organize Your Homeschool Space in Small Areas)
6. Explore Nature with a Scavenger Hunt
Head to a local park or trail with a list of items to find—like a feather, a certain type of leaf, or a cool rock.
7. Do a Puzzle Together
Puzzles are great for building patience and teamwork. Choose one with a theme your kids love.
8. Make a Craft
Try simple DIY crafts like friendship bracelets, painting rocks, or making paper airplanes.
(Helpful Resource: Pinterest is full of craft ideas for all ages.)
9. Have a Dance Party
Turn up the music and let loose! It’s an instant mood booster and burns off energy. If you know us, we love a good dance party daily!
10. Write a Story Together
Take turns coming up with characters and plot twists. By the end, you’ll have a family-made masterpiece.
11. Try a Science Experiment
Simple science experiments like making slime or a baking soda volcano are always a hit.
(Check out KiwiCo Science Kits for kits and great inspiration.)
12. Play Hide and Seek
Yes, even older kids love this one. It’s timeless, simple, and gets everyone moving.
13. Start a Garden
Plant flowers, herbs, or veggies together. Watching them grow is rewarding and teaches responsibility.
14. Have a Picnic—Indoors or Outdoors
Pack a basket, lay down a blanket, and enjoy lunch together—whether it’s in the backyard or the living room.
15. Practice Origami
Learn to fold paper into animals, shapes, or flowers. It’s a creative and calming activity.
(Helpful Resource: Origami Way has tutorials for all levels.)
16. Host a Talent ShoW
Let each family member showcase their skills—singing, dancing, magic tricks, or comedy routines.
17. Build with LEGO or Blocks
Challenge your kids to create something specific, like a bridge or a city.
18. Go for a Nature Walk
Take a slow walk outside and observe the world around you. Collect leaves, spot birds, or just enjoy the quiet.
19. Create a Family Scrapbook
Gather photos, ticket stubs, and little mementos to make a scrapbook together.
20. Make Your Own Board Game
Design and create a game as a family, complete with rules, pieces, and a board.
How Screen-Free Time Builds Connection
The beauty of screenless activities isn’t just in the fun—it’s in the connection. These moments remind us that being present with our kids matters. They won’t remember the perfect house or the endless to-do lists, but they’ll remember the time we spent with them.
Scripture Reminder: “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” – Psalm 90:12
Taking time to unplug helps us focus on what truly matters and create a rhythm of intentional living.
Make Screen-Free Time apart of your family rhythm
Screenless activities for kids don’t have to be elaborate or time-consuming. The key is to start small, make it fun, and prioritize connection. Often we get caught up in the busyness of the week that we can default to screens. We love our tablets and favorite shows, however, we do know they cannot replace time together.
Whether you try one of these ideas today or plan a whole week of activities, I hope this list inspires you to create memories, laugh a little louder, and connect a little deeper.
And remember—it’s okay if things get messy. Those are often the best moments.
(Check out this Post: Practical Tips for Family Goal Planning)