Creative Alternatives to Screen Time for Toddlers and Preschoolers

Hey, parents, caregivers, and anyone who’s ever had to talk a toddler out of watching just one more episode of their favorite show... 🙋‍♀️

Let’s be real for a second: we all know that toddlers love their screen time (and who can blame them? Those cartoons are colorful and catchy). But as much as we love having a moment of peace, we also know that balancing screen time with other activities is super important for our kiddos’ development. So, how do we give them something fun, engaging, and screen-free? Don’t worry – I’ve got your back with some awesome alternatives that will keep them busy and help their brains grow.

Here’s the lowdown on some creative, screen-free activities that will give you (and your toddler) a break from the glowing rectangle. 📱

1. DIY Sensory Bins

If you’ve never made a sensory bin for your toddler, you’re seriously missing out. Sensory bins are like little treasure chests filled with objects and textures for your child to explore. The best part? You can make them with whatever you have lying around the house.

Think dried rice, pasta, small toys, or even fabric scraps. I’ve made bins with themes like "Under the Sea" (with seashells and blue rice) or "Construction Zone" (with toy trucks and gravel). Let your toddler dig around and explore the textures, shapes, and colors. It’s a hands-on activity that keeps their mind and hands busy – and it’s a great way to give them a screen-free adventure.

2. Obstacle Course Madness

Sometimes, the best way to burn off a toddler’s energy is to turn your living room into a mini obstacle course. You don’t need fancy equipment; just use whatever you have on hand. Think couch cushions, chairs, blankets, and maybe a few stuffed animals. You can have them crawl under the table, jump over a pillow, or even balance on a line of tape on the floor (extra points if it looks like a tightrope).

Not only does this get your toddler moving and developing their gross motor skills, but it also gives you some much-needed quiet time to breathe (or maybe even finish that cup of coffee you’ve been meaning to drink). 😅

3. Arts and Crafts Galore

I might be a little biased here (because, you know, I run a craft kit business), but arts and crafts are a fantastic screen-free activity. Kids can get lost in creating, whether they’re drawing, painting, or gluing. Plus, the possibilities are endless – you can make homemade cards, create paper plate animals, or even turn those old magazines into collages.

Let your toddler’s imagination take the reins, and you’ll find they’re so absorbed in their project that they forget all about the TV. Plus, you get to hang up their masterpieces around the house, which is a win-win. 🎨

4. Storytime with a Twist

Reading books is obviously a classic alternative to screen time, but let’s give it a little twist. Instead of just reading a book aloud, why not act out the story? You can do funny voices, make animal noises, or even use simple props to make the story come to life.

And if your toddler has a favorite book they want to hear a million times (I’m looking at you, “Goodnight Moon”), get creative with it! You can change the ending, add in some silly characters, or even let your toddler “read” the book to you in their own words (spoiler: it’ll be adorable). 📚

5. Baking and Cooking Together

OK, so this one might be a little messier, but it’s also a fantastic way to bond with your toddler and teach them new skills. Get them involved in the kitchen by having them help with simple tasks like stirring, pouring, or decorating cookies. You’d be amazed at how much they love mixing ingredients and feeling like they’re part of the process.

Bonus points if you make the activity a learning opportunity by talking about measurements, shapes, and textures (my toddler is now obsessed with the word “batter”). And don’t worry about perfection – the mess is half the fun! 👩‍🍳👨‍🍳

6. Treasure Hunts and Scavenger Hunts

Who doesn’t love a good treasure hunt? You can set up a scavenger hunt around the house or yard, giving your toddler clues to find hidden objects. You can create a theme (pirates, animals, etc.) and hide little treasures or toys for them to discover. This activity combines problem-solving, excitement, and physical movement – all while keeping them entertained.

Plus, if you’re feeling extra sneaky, you can throw in a few educational clues (like “find something red” or “where’s the toy car?”). It’s a great way to keep their brains engaged and have fun at the same time.

So, there you have it! These creative, screen-free activities are not only fun, but they also help your toddler grow and develop new skills. Plus, they’ll give you a break from the screen time battle and allow you to connect with your little one in a more hands-on way. Just be prepared for a little mess, a lot of laughter, and a toddler who’s so proud of their creations.

Now go forth, turn off those screens, and let the fun begin! 🎉