Screen-Free Fun: Games & Activities Kids Actually Love
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As a pediatric ophthalmologist (and a mom), I talk a lot about screen time—because it really does matter.
The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology & Strabismus recommend avoiding screens altogether for children under 18 months (other than video chatting) and keeping screen use limited and intentional as kids grow. Too much screen time can:
Disrupt neural pathways important for attention, language, and social development
Strain the eyes and contribute to dryness and discomfort
Interfere with sleep when used in the evenings
And in older kids, increase the risk of progressive nearsightedness (myopia)
That doesn’t mean screens are the enemy—but it does mean we need other tools in our parenting toolkit. Having engaging, non-digital activities ready makes it so much easier to say “yes” to something better.
Here are some of my family’s favorite screen-free activities that kids will actually choose (and love):
1. Brain-Teasing Puzzles That Travel Well
Kanoodle – Compact, colorful, and surprisingly addictive. Great for car rides or restaurant waits.
ThinkFun Block by Block – Helps kids think spatially and problem-solve in creative ways.
ThinkFun Shape by Shape – Perfect for geometry lovers and older kids who like a challenge.
2. Family Card Games
Screen-free doesn’t have to mean solo play. Games like UNO give kids a way to connect with family members of all ages while practicing strategy, colors, and numbers.
3. Creative Outlets for Quiet Play
Gel pens, markers, and coloring books – Coloring reduces stress and builds focus (for adults, too).
WaterWow – Mess-free “painting” for toddlers, reusable again and again.
4. Puzzles for All Ages
Traditional puzzles or mazes are wonderful for concentration and patience. Younger kids get the joy of finding a “match,” while older kids love the satisfaction of finishing a bigger challenge.
Why This Matters
Screens aren’t going anywhere, but when kids are only entertained by them, they miss out on opportunities to build the skills that come from boredom, imagination, and hands-on play.
These games and activities aren’t just “alternatives.” They actively support:
Eye health by reducing screen strain
Focus and attention spans by stretching concentration
Family connection through shared activities
Creativity by giving kids space to imagine and problem-solve
Find all of these and more of my screen-free favorites on my Amazon storefront.
