It’s no secret that screens are everywhere. From games to streaming to virtual school, it’s easy for kids to spend hours looking at a screen, and even easier for adults to let it happen. However, excessive screen time can leave children feeling overstimulated, tired, or disconnected from the real world’s fun. The good news? There are plenty of better ways to spend that time.
In Colorado, families are exploring all sorts of creative and active alternatives. Whether it’s group classes, outdoor fun, or expressive activities, many are discovering that reducing screen time can open the door to something much better. Here are a few ideas families are loving right now.
- Outdoor Play and Nature Exploration
Fresh air, open space, and no devices—what’s not to love? Outdoor time provides kids with the opportunity to move, explore, and play freely. Parks, hiking trails, backyards, and local nature centers are great places to let imagination lead the way. Activities such as building forts, searching for bugs, or simply climbing trees all encourage creativity and independence. Plus, outdoor movement helps burn off energy in a healthy way. Even 30 minutes outside after school can help improve focus, mood, and sleep.
- Learning an Instrument or Taking a Creative Class
Trying something new is a great way to keep minds active and engaged. Creative activities like painting, dancing, or playing an instrument help build confidence and discipline, and they’re a lot of fun, too. Many families are turning to music lessons through the Center for Musical Arts in Colorado as a screen-free way to support emotional expression and skill-building. With lessons in piano, voice, violin, guitar, drums, and more, children can explore their interests and grow at their own pace.
- Reading Together as a Daily Ritual
Books might be old-school, but they’re still one of the best ways to keep minds growing. Setting aside 20 minutes a day to read together builds vocabulary, focus, and imagination. It also fosters a shared routine that brings families closer together. For younger kids, picture books and silly stories are great choices. For older ones, try chapter books, graphic novels, or biographies. Allowing kids to choose what to read helps them stay engaged and makes reading feel more like fun, rather than a chore.
- Sports, Dance, and Movement-Based Hobbies
Physical activity is more than just exercise—it’s a great way to build confidence, social skills, and healthy habits. Whether it’s a local soccer league, a dance studio, martial arts, or swim classes, movement-based programs provide structure and focus. Team sports teach cooperation and communication, while solo activities help kids set personal goals and stay active. Best of all, these hobbies provide a break from screens while keeping their minds and bodies engaged in a positive way.
- Arts and Crafts That Encourage Focus and Creativity
Crafting keeps hands and minds busy. Drawing, painting, building with clay, or even making friendship bracelets gives children a creative outlet that doesn’t involve screens. These simple projects support focus, patience, and imagination. The best part? You don’t need fancy supplies—just paper, pencils, glue, and a little time. Whether they’re creating a card for a friend or decorating a shoebox rocket, crafting is a fun and productive way to spend an afternoon.
- Gardening and Nature-Based Projects
Gardening might seem like an adult hobby, but it’s a wonderful activity for kids too. Planting flowers, herbs, or vegetables teaches patience, responsibility, and care. Watching something grow from a seed to a sprout to a full plant is rewarding and encourages curiosity about how nature works. Children can help water plants, pull weeds, and even decorate plant pots. Small container gardens are ideal for beginners, as they can be easily managed on a porch or balcony. It’s hands-on, screen-free, and satisfying.
- Volunteering or Helping in the Community
Giving back is something kids can learn early on. Whether it’s helping neighbors, collecting canned goods for a food drive, or making cards for a senior center, acts of service teach kindness and empathy. Volunteering doesn’t have to take up an entire weekend—it can be as simple as helping clean up a local park or donating toys to a charity. These experiences help children understand the value of community and encourage a sense of purpose beyond their everyday routines.
- Family Game Nights or Puzzle Challenges
Spending time together as a family doesn’t have to involve a screen. Board games, card games, and puzzles are classic ways to foster communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Choose age-appropriate games that everyone can enjoy, and make them a regular part of your weekly routine. Rotate between favorites or introduce something new each time. These moments not only offer a fun break but also help kids develop patience, strategy, and good sportsmanship—all while sharing laughs and memories.
- Cooking or Baking Together
Getting kids involved in the kitchen is a fun way to build life skills. Simple tasks like measuring, mixing, and reading a recipe help with math, reading, and following directions. Cooking together also encourages trying new foods and understanding where meals come from. Start with easy recipes, such as homemade pizza, cookies, or fruit smoothies. Give them small responsibilities and watch their confidence grow. Best of all, the reward is something you can eat together.
- Journaling or Story Writing
Writing is more than just a school skill—it’s a creative outlet. Giving kids a notebook or journal encourages them to express their thoughts, create stories, or simply write about their day. They can decorate the pages, add drawings, or even create comic strips. For younger ones, parents can help by writing down their words. Writing promotes self-expression, reflection, and builds literacy in a quiet, focused way. Plus, it’s a screen-free habit that can last a lifetime.
Reducing screen time doesn’t have to mean saying “no” all day—it can mean saying “yes” to better options. From creative activities to family fun, there are so many ways to keep kids engaged and learning. Enriching options, such as music lessons, offer skill-building and joy in equal measure. With a little planning, families can create a balanced routine that’s less about scrolling and more about growing together.
