Is it time to take a break from screen time? While stopping cold turkey can feel challenging, replacing screens with engaging activities can support your child’s development, creativity, and critical thinking skills. Our pediatric occupational therapists have strategies to help your family successfully transition to new ideas!

1. Create a Reward System

Setting a certain amount of time away from screens can become exciting with the use of a reward chart or countdown calendar. Turning the change into a fun challenge helps your child stay motivated while also building anticipation for non-screen activities.

2. Educate and Involve Your Child

Children respond better when they understand the “why.” Take time to explain the reasoning behind limiting screen time and involve them in brainstorming alternatives. Offering choices empowers them to feel part of the process and makes success more likely.

3. Rotate and Model Alternatives

Provide a set of go-to options for your child and rotate them weekly to keep things fresh. Make sure they know where to find activities—and model decreased screen use yourself so they see the change in action.

4. Explore Alternative Activities

Provide a set of go-to options for your child and rotate them weekly to keep things fresh. Make sure they know where to find activities—and model decreased screen use yourself so they see the change in action 
Here are five engaging categories to get started:

Sensory Play

Creating sensory bins allows your child to explore, imagine, and build creativity. Themes can be rotated to keep things fun.
Examples: Rice bin, paper shreds, dried pasta, mini animals, tongs & tweezers, spoons & bowls.

Crafting

A table stocked with art materials provides endless opportunities for expression.
Examples: Coloring books, paint set, dot markers, hole punchers, stickers. 

Building Station

Problem-solving and critical thinking shine in building play.
Examples: Lego kits, paper airplane book, Magna-Tiles, popsicle sticks, Lincoln Logs, wooden train tracks.

Dress-Up Play

Imaginative play fosters social and emotional development.
Examples: Princess costumes, doctor kit, vet playset, tea party set, sports gear, superhero costumes.

Outdoor Play

Fresh air and movement build strength, coordination, and resilience.
Examples: Sidewalk chalk, nature scavenger hunt cards, jump rope, climbing dome, scooter, water play table.

Conclussion

Fresh air and movement build strength, coordination, and resilience.
Cutting back on screen time is no small task, but the long-term benefits are worth it. Start with a short challenge—such as one week without screens—and gradually increase the duration. Over time, your child will discover that they enjoy and look forward to these alternatives.
If you’d like more support or ideas tailored to your child, our pediatric occupational therapists are here to help. Reach out to us at Good Beginnings Therapy to learn more about how we can partner with you.
Written by: Kiersten Robertson, MOT, OTR/L
Edited by: Amy S. O’Malley, PT, DPT, PCS