In a world where digital devices dominate entertainment, many parents find it difficult to unplug during family holidays. Screens can be convenient, especially on long journeys or quiet evenings, but too much screen time often comes at the expense of connection, creativity, and meaningful experiences. That’s why planning screen-free holiday activities is one of the best things families can do to ensure their time away is enriching and memorable — especially for children.
Children thrive on stimulation, but not all stimulation needs to come from a tablet or phone. There are countless screen-free activities that keep kids happy, engaged, and learning, all while helping families bond and create lasting memories. Here are some of the best ideas to inspire screen-free fun during your next holiday.
1. Outdoor Treasure Hunts
Whether you’re in a forest, at the beach, or staying in a resort village, a simple treasure hunt can become an exciting adventure. You can create a list of items for children to find — pinecones, smooth stones, feathers, or even things of certain colours or shapes. Add a story element, like pretending to be pirates or wildlife explorers, and the experience becomes even more immersive.
2. Crafts with a Twist
Creative activities are a natural way to keep kids focused without relying on screens. Bring along a small kit with coloured pencils, glue sticks, and scissors, or use materials found in nature — leaves, twigs, or seashells — to craft handmade souvenirs. These hands-on projects not only pass the time but also let children express themselves and reflect on their holiday experiences.
3. Board Games and Card Games
Travel-sized games like Uno, Dobble, or even classic card decks are perfect for evenings or rainy days. These games teach children patience, strategy, and social skills. Plus, they’re incredibly portable and can easily be packed into any suitcase or backpack.
4. Cooking Together
Getting kids involved in preparing meals or snacks can be both educational and fun. Whether you’re staying in self-catered accommodation or just making a picnic, children enjoy measuring ingredients, mixing dough, or creating their own sandwich combinations. Turn it into a themed night — like a “Build Your Own Pizza” or “Taco Tuesday” — to make it more exciting.
5. Storytelling and Journaling
Encourage your child to keep a holiday journal or diary. This can include drawings, written entries, or even pressed flowers. For younger kids, consider audio storytelling sessions where each family member takes turns adding to an adventure tale. These quiet moments help children reflect, develop their language skills, and build imagination.
Of course, not all screen-free fun needs to be planned. Sometimes, the most magical moments happen when you simply explore the surroundings — watching the sunset, skipping stones on a lake, or building sandcastles. It’s about giving kids the time and space to play freely and experience the world with all their senses.
This type of play and exploration is something that many family-friendly destinations are starting to prioritize. For example, Manor & Ashbury Resorts offers a wide range of child-friendly activities that encourage screen-free engagement — from arts and crafts workshops to sports, games, and outdoor adventures. Resorts like this prove that you don’t need to rely on digital entertainment to have a fun and fulfilling holiday.
Tips for Planning a Screen-Free Holiday:
- Set expectations early: Talk to your children before the trip about limiting screen time and explain why.
- Be flexible but consistent: Allow a little screen time if necessary, especially during long travel, but balance it with offline activities.
- Create a screen-free zone: Designate certain parts of the day or specific locations (like the dinner table or beach) as device-free.
- Lead by example: Children model adult behaviour — if you’re glued to your phone, they’ll want to be, too.
The Lasting Benefits
Stepping away from screens, even temporarily, helps children develop essential life skills. It fosters creativity, strengthens family bonds, improves sleep, and reduces anxiety. More importantly, it helps children stay present and fully experience the joy and beauty of their surroundings.
By planning ahead and incorporating some of these activities into your next trip, you’re not only helping your child grow — you’re also giving your family the gift of connection. Holidays should be about shared laughter, new adventures, and time spent together — not staring at separate screens.
So, unplug, step outside, and rediscover the joy of simple, screen-free fun.