35 NO SCREEN Activities For Kids

Do you worry about how much screen time your child gets?
Do you know how much is too much?

I know we've all seen or heard the phrase "Cut the Cable". It is one of the latest trends in television watching.

I also know that it is mainly due to the economy and people trying to find ways to cut back costs, save a few bucks a month, or to get a better selection of what they view. Why pay for channels and programs you don't watch!?

But, what about cutting out screen time completely?

Okay, not completely, 100 % of the time.  I just mean cutting...wayyy back.

Did you know that using game systems, tablets, cell phones, and computers, are also considered screen time?
Studies have shown the many effects that too much screen time or stimulation can cause on children.
Did you know that too much screen time can affect children's sleep patterns, eating habits, and over all physical health? It can also cause difficulties in school, difficulty focusing for long periods, and behavior issues; such as, aggression, depression, social anxiety, and more.
Check this out:
Screen Free

Do you have NO SCREEN DAYS?

I used to. When we had our own home, we were cable free for over three years. We also had days when I didn't allow the televisions to be turned on at all! No tablets, television, game systems, computers, and occasionally they could listen to music or have ear buds for a limited time on those days.

Those days we had to find other ways to occupy our hours.

I admit some days seemed to drag on and some days I caved in and let the television be turned on. We aren't perfect, but making a conscious decision to try and limit screen time for everyone is a good step.

I know for some, this task is easier than it is for others. Most of us have had access to all these devises for quite a few years, and our children most likely have never been without at least one of them.

Remember the days of one "family TV", with 3 channels and everyone had to watch the same show or nothing at all.

Ah, those were the days. For myself, no screen days is pretty simple

Oh, wait, oops. No scratch that!

I do my work on the computer, mostly have my phone at the ready; constantly checking emails, texts, etc.

See, we all need a little less visual stimulation in our lives!

How are we going to do this NO Screen Thing?

Well, I'm glad you asked! I've come up with a list of 35 NO SCREEN Activities For Kids!

Hey, parents! Don't be afraid to join in.

Children learn by example!

1.Read a book

2. Do sidewalk chalk/play hopscotch

3.Sing a song-silliest wins!

4. Color/draw/paint

5.Build with blocks or Legos

6.Do a puzzle/jigsaw/maze

7. Run a race

8. Play dress up

9.Build a blanket fort

10.Play in the sand or dirt or mud!

11.Play a card game or board game

12.Have a scavenger hunt

13. Play I Spy or Would you Rather

14. Walk to a park

15. Play a game of catch or wiffle ball

16. Throw a Frisbee

17. Write a letter

18. Play career, be a doctor, teacher, veterinarian 

19.Play grocery store or restaurant- cashier/customer

20.Have a water balloon fight

21.Blow bubbles, make a water station

22.Call a friend, grandma, cousin

23. Make a snack, create a recipe

24. Go to a farm or petting zoo

25. Play with play-doh(who doesn't love this stuff...right?)

26.Give your toys a wash/clean up

27. Do arts and crafts

28. Play school

29. Play with a pet you have

30. Make homemade slime

31. Have a picnic indoors or outside

32. Go watch a ball game

33. Ride a bike, skateboard, scooter, roller skates

34. Go to the library

35. Go bowling

I hope this list gives you some great ideas for your NO SCREEN days!

Crayola has a ton of great arts and craft supplies and craft ideas.

Ticketmaster is a wonderful place to find deals and discounts on so many events. Concerts, games, plays, and more

Be sure to check both of those out for amazing ideas!

I would love to hear any other ideas you've found!

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