It’s no secret that the pandemic has us spending way more time in front of screens than usual, but did you know that kids between ages 8-10 get a full six hours of screen time a day? According to the American Heart Association, this number should be reduced to just two hours a day, and one hour for the little ones ages 2-5. Don’t fret! There are so many entertaining ways to engage kids’ minds without technology or screens. Here are five fun, screen-free activities for kids and families to do together, brought to you by trained Museum educators.
- Go on a Materials Scavenger Hunt
Can you find examples of fabric in your home? How about wood or carpentry? Plastic? Set off on a materials hunt with Alissa’s help, and discover just how many different materials are in your home.
2. Create a Cozy Space
Do you like pillows, stuffed animals, and comfy places? Join Saki as she teaches you how to make your own cozy space to relax and enjoy some alone time. You’ll see examples of cozy spaces created by other kids to help get inspired!
3. Make Paper Snowflakes
Do you like arts and crafts? You’re in luck! Come celebrate the winter season by making and decorating your very own paper snowflakes.
4. Embark on a Nature Scavenger Hunt
Nothing gets you away from screens like playing outside! Join Brianna on an outdoor scavenger hunt, and learn more about the sights and sounds right outside your front door.
5. Design Buildings Out of Marshmallows and Toothpicks
For the young future architects out there, come test your skills and learn how to design buildings using only marshmallows and toothpicks!
The Power of Play 
Thank you so much for this post! Our family has been doing meal kits together. It’s a great hands-on practical life activity that combines math, nutritional science and learning new vocabulary. The girls usually love the results, a delicious meal that they helped prepare. This activity can take 2-3 hours for prepping, cooking, eating and cleaning up.
This is a great idea! Thank you for leaving a comment—we hope it might inspire other families to try it too.