Screen-Free Solutions: Transforming Mundane Moments into Meaningful Connections

As mothers, we are often tempted to resort to screens as a quick solution when we need a break, whether during long car rides, meal preparation, or after a tiring day. While this may provide a temporary respite, a more valuable gift would be to set aside a specific period without screens. This proactive approach not only encourages learning and meaningful conversations but also allows for the creation of lasting memories. 

When technology is initially removed, tantrums and meltdowns can and do occur. But once kids are through the detox phase, the absence of screens can lead to some wonderful time spent together and be beneficial for all. There are many technology-free ideas to try while spending time with your kids, and it can be the gift that keeps giving.

Keeping children entertained during car rides, especially those prone to boredom, can be a challenge. However, there are numerous screen-free activities that can make the journey enjoyable and engaging. Games like I Spy, License Plate Bingo or collaborative storytelling can stimulate their imagination and keep them occupied. And when I Spy starts to lose its charm, there are plenty of other unique games to try, ensuring a fun-filled and interactive trip. 

If you’re using screens to keep your kids preoccupied while making dinner, try incorporating them into the routine. Granted, they will spill and drop things, but what better way to practice and sharpen those cooking skills? They can learn how to measure ingredients, read recipes, and prepare food. Not only is it a fun, hands-on way to learn, but it helps them feel included. You can engage them in conversation and create some (messy) memories together as they develop new abilities and absorb information. For kids too young to help, try having them around so you can show them what you’re doing and talk to them while doing so, which enhances language development. 

While it might be easier to keep kids happy while in a controlled or comfortable environment, such as your car or home, going screenless can be more challenging when you’re out in public running errands or going to appointments. It can be a challenge to keep them from running around, yelling, and having a meltdown in the middle of a grocery store aisle. But before reaching for the iPad, and after testing what methods help engage them at home or in the car, work to apply those things to a grocery store trip or appointment. Kids love to learn and feel involved, so giving them a task can help. At the store, you can ask them to carry an item or look for a particular product. If they are older, you can also have them read the ingredients of something they might want (like a treat) and explain what they are. Additionally, you can make a game out of it, such as Memory, and ask them to help recall ingredients in a recipe. 



Kids generally struggle with waiting, sitting still or remaining quiet for long periods. It can feel confining when they have so much energy to burn off. So, try engaging them with an activity from the start, having conversations that let their imagination run wild and transform into a collaborative learning experience while also making meaningful memories. It’s a gift moms can give their kids and themselves.