Screens are part of family life, and sometimes they’re exactly what’s needed. But kids’ imaginations grow best when given chances to play, explore and connect without TV, video games, phones, computers and tablets. With just a few small habits, families can spark creativity and joy every day.
Colour Your Day
Instead of asking, “How was your day?” try, “What colour was your day?” (or even “What animal?” or “What shape?”). Kids choose, and the family guesses what it means—Was red an exciting recess game, or orange a silly moment in gym class? This playful twist not only gets kids talking, but it also helps them reflect in a way that feels fun and imaginative. Many families find it becomes a ritual that makes the transition home something to look forward to. You could even create a colour chart by the door as a fun way to check in when the kids arrive home.
Story Games at the Table
Mealtimes can be a launchpad for creativity. Try “family Mad Libs,” where everyone adds silly words to complete a story, or pick a random word and invent its meaning together. The sillier the better—kids love when the grown-ups get goofy too. These little games turn dinner into connection time, bubbling with laughter and imagination. The classic “Would you rather?” game is another hit. Try something like: Would you rather swim in a bathtub full of Jello or drive a car made out of marshmallows?
Recycled Art Projects
Everyday objects can spark creativity too. Collect beach or forest treasures, bottle caps or household recycling and turn them into art. Not only does this encourage problem-solving and design skills, but it also teaches kids about caring for the environment. One project might become a colourful collage, another a homemade sculpture. It’s messy, fun, and meaningful.
Podcasts for Play
Podcasts are a wonderful screen-free tool. Whether it’s a storytime series or an educational adventure, audio sparks imagination while keeping kids’ hands free for drawing, LEGO or pretend play. For highly rated kids’ shows, try the Go Kid Go network.
Create a Safe Play Space
A dedicated play zone stocked with simple, sturdy toys (blocks, costumes, art supplies) and free of “off-limit” temptations (like delicate furniture, expensive art or open outlets) encourages kids to dive into independent play. When children know they have a safe, welcoming spot to be themselves, their creativity naturally flourishes.
A Balanced Approach
Experts recommend that children ages two to five enjoy no more than an hour of high-quality screen time daily, while older kids may handle more, as long as it’s balanced with sleep, activity and family time. But remember, there’s no need for guilt if you use screens when you need them. Think of screens as one tool among many; not the enemy.
The Takeaway
By weaving in small traditions—colour games, story swaps, recycled art, podcasts and safe play spaces—parents can give their kids daily chances to flex their imagination. It’s not about eliminating screens completely, but about creating a balance where creativity can shine.
And who knows? The next time you ask your child what colour their day was, the answer might just be “rainbow.”
Screen-Free Fun at a Glance
• Colour Your Day: Ask, “What colour was your day?” and guess what it means.
• Story Games at the Table: Play Mad Libs, invent silly words or try “Would you rather?”
• Recycled Art: Turn outdoor finds or recycling into collages and sculptures.
• Podcasts for Play: Try kid-friendly podcasts to spark imagination while little hands stay busy.
• Safe Play Space: Set up a zone with blocks, costumes and art supplies where kids can play freely.
