Screen-Free Activities That Actually Entertain Toddlers

tessaapa
May 26
2 min read

Let’s be real — sometimes the easiest way to get some space and time is to hand your child the tablet or phone. But if you’re looking for options that don’t involve a screen, why not try these toddler-tested screen-free activities. No complicated prep, no fancy toys, and minimal mess (well…mostly minimal).

Screen-Free Activities

Sink Play (aka “Water Lab”)

Pull up a stool to the bathroom or kitchen sink, fill it with a little water, and hand over cups, ladles, measuring spoons, or bath toys. Toddlers love pouring, scooping, and splashing. Bonus: Add a drop of dish soap and it becomes a bubble wonderland. Pro tip: Lay a towel on the floor first!

Sticker Collages

Give them a sheet of stickers and a blank piece of paper. That’s it. For some reason, peeling and sticking is a never-ending thrill.

Nature Sorting

Head outside and let your child collect sticks, rocks, leaves, or flowers. Then come inside and sort them by size, color, or type. Bonus: it counts as both science and quiet time.

Bubble Wrap Stomp

If you’ve got leftover bubble wrap from a package, tape it to the floor and let your toddler stomp away. They’ll love the noise and the feeling under their feet.

Pom-Pom Push

Take an old cardboard box and cut holes big enough for pom-poms to JUST push through. Toddlers love the challenge — and you can turn it into a color-matching game too.

Snack Necklaces

Give your toddler some dry cereal with holes (like Cheerios or pretzel rings) and a piece of yarn. Let them make their own snack necklace. Great for hand-eye coordination — and snack time buys you even more time.

Shadow Play

Turn off the lights, grab a flashlight, and make hand shadows on the wall. Or put toys in front of the flashlight and talk about the shapes. Super simple, and they’ll be mesmerized.