Looking ahead to the school holidays and wondering how to keep the kids entertained — without defaulting to screens? You’re not alone. For many working parents, the lure of letting children watch TV or play video games is strong. After all, a quiet child often means a moment of peace or a chance to catch up on chores.
But screen time can add up fast. Research from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry shows that kids between 8 and 12 years old are spending four to six hours daily on screens. For teens, that number jumps to around nine hours — and likely climbs even higher during weekends or school breaks.
That’s why it’s important to plan ahead with fun, engaging activities that don’t involve technology. Here are a variety of simple, screen-free ideas designed to spark creativity and connection — mostly aimed at younger kids, though older ones might enjoy them, too.
Outdoor Adventures
Head Outside. It might sound basic, but outdoor play is often overlooked — and it can be a lot of fun. If you have a yard, use it for hide-and-seek, building forts, or snow games in winter. No yard? Explore your local park, go for a walk, or try a neighborhood scavenger hunt.
Library Treasures
Make a Library Run. Early in the break, take your child to the library and stock up on books, games, and puzzles. Some libraries offer a “Library of Things,” where you can borrow items like art kits, telescopes, or even musical instruments — all for free.
Creative Indoor Play
Build a Fort. Use chairs, blankets, or a pop-up tent to create a cozy space. Fill it with pillows, flashlights, and sleeping bags. Let the kids spend the night in it or keep it up all week.
Create a Living Room City. Use blocks, boxes, Legos, or toy sets to design a miniature city. Add roads, cars, animals, and people — and grow it a little each day.
Arts and Crafts
Get Messy with Art. Stock up on affordable supplies like poster board, large paper, markers, glue, and paint. Make murals, posters, comic strips, or simple sewing projects. Add music to the mix to inspire creativity.
Story Time and Imagination
Read Aloud. Choose a chapter book to enjoy together — from magical adventures to classic tales. Use different voices and get into character. It’s a great bonding activity that boosts literacy too.
Put on a Puppet Show. Don’t have puppets? Make your own from socks or paper bags. Use a cardboard box as a stage and let your child perform their own story or reenact a favorite one.
Games and Treats
Play Board Games. Rediscover family favorites like Scrabble, Uno, Twister, Clue, or Monopoly. Even simple games like checkers or Connect 4 can be surprisingly entertaining.
Bake Together. Use pre-made dough or mixes to keep things easy. Decorating cookies or cupcakes with icing and toppings adds an extra layer of fun. Turn up the music and dance while they bake.
Let Kids Lead the Way
Many of these ideas require just a little involvement to get started. Once kids are engaged, they often take over with their own ideas and creativity — which is exactly the goal. A bit of structure, some imagination, and a break from screens can go a long way toward a fun, memorable vacation.
And don’t be surprised if you find yourself joining in.
For more advise or help email us at info@corecentre.ca
