Activities
Screen-Free Activities for Kids
Screen-free activity ideas for kids of different ages, sorted so you can find one fast.
Good screen-free activities give kids something to do with their hands and a clear, open-ended goal — building, making, sorting, moving, or pretending. Keep a short list of go-to ideas by age so you can reach for one without planning. The most reliable options use basic supplies: paper, tape, blocks, cards, and outdoor space.
Screen-free ideas by age
Toddlers (1–3)
- Sorting and stacking
- Sensory bins (supervised)
- Simple pretend play with dolls or cars
Preschool (3–5)
- Building with blocks or magnet tiles
- Play dough
- Dress-up and pretend
School-age (6+)
- Card and board games
- Simple crafts and drawing
- Building forts and outdoor games
Editorial content in progress
Add a printable, age-tabbed 'boredom buster' list and a short note on setting up an accessible activity shelf kids can reach themselves.
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Mom's Magazine Editorial Team
Editorial Team
The Mom's Magazine editorial team researches and writes practical, plainly-sourced guidance for parents and families. Guides are reviewed for accuracy and updated as recommendations change. Where a topic calls for professional expertise, we cite reputable organizations and, for health topics, add a qualified reviewer before publishing.
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