We all know it! It's healthy and beneficial for children to take a break from screens. Yet, many children—and adults—often find themselves in front of a tablet or phone for entertainment. It's easy. Quick. And right at hand. But perhaps it's precisely because of this that it's so important to remember how much children actually gain from good, old-fashioned play. The kind where imagination runs free, where hands are busy, and where boredom can lead to creativity. In this blog post, we've gathered a range of ideas and products that are perfect alternatives to screen time. Activities that enhance children's development, imagination, and social skills—and create shared memories and closeness for you and your family.
1,000 Hours Outdoors – Inspiration for Play in Nature
Nothing beats fresh air, muddy boots, and rosy cheeks. The book 1,000 Hours Outdoors is a treasure trove of ideas for outdoor play and activities. It offers concrete suggestions for how your family can spend more time together in nature—without requiring lots of equipment or long preparations. If you love being outside and exploring the world, this book is a must-have—"Turn off the screen - turn on play."
Children thrive when outside; it boosts their motor skills and imagination. They learn to use their bodies, interpret their surroundings, and invent games—all things screens can't offer. This is pure, sensory childhood, enriching both body and mind.
The Idea Opener – When Your Child Says: “I’m Bored!”
There's nothing that gets my own child to resist more than the words “No, not screen time right now.” The reaction follows promptly: “But I'm bored!” And that's when the Idea Opener becomes our savior.
This clever little game, developed by parents Amalie and Jens, is designed for those moments when boredom strikes. The game contains 75 creative, screen-free ideas for play and activities, which children can engage with alone or with adults. It's simple, tangible, and serves as a gateway to endless play—far from the screen.
Listen and Think – Audiobooks and Headphones for Kids
A fantastic alternative to screen time is a good audiobook. Here, the child's imagination is stimulated, as the images are created in their mind and not on the screen. It is a peaceful and introspective activity that offers a chance for relaxation in a busy day.
With our selection of child-friendly Bluetooth headphones, audiobooks can easily be connected to a phone, allowing children to lean back and immerse themselves in a story's universe. Sound stimulates the imagination, and many children need just that—a pause where thoughts can fly. We offer wireless headphones from Lalarma, with a maximum of 85 decibels to protect your children's hearing. The headphones are rechargeable and can play for up to 5.5 hours on a single charge. They are designed with super soft ear pads and adjustable to fit your child.
Find child-friendly headphones here
TV Kitchen and Childhood Memories – Cook with Your Kids
As a child, I loved playing “TV Kitchen.” I'd stand at the kitchen counter, apron-clad, with grand gestures like a real '80s host. It was a game where you learned to taste, mix, measure, and take pride in your little kitchen project.
When you invite your child into the kitchen—whether you're baking rolls, making meatballs, or stirring cake batter—you’re giving more than just knowledge about food. You’re creating closeness, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging. It's hands-on learning, something children remember and grow from. What will you make in the kitchen? Will you bake bread or cake? Prepare easy child-friendly dishes that involve cutting and chopping? If choosing is difficult, we have cookbooks for kids with easy recipes, appealing pictures, and inspiring guidance. Go to the kitchen with Pippi Longstocking or Donald Duck, or choose another of our fantastic children's cookbooks.
Construction Toys – Play and Learning in One
When children build, assemble, and construct, they activate logical thinking, creativity, and fine motor skills. Construction toys like marble runs from Quercetti, magnetic toys, or LEGO for older children provide hours of immersion.
Unlike screens, which often present ready solutions, here the child must figure out how to assemble something. It trains problem-solving and persistence—two qualities that are invaluable now and later in life.
See the full selection of construction toys here
Creative Play – Let Imagination Run Wild
Making beads, painting, drawing, crafting jewelry, or engaging in other creative endeavors is always delightful and deeply developmental. When children are allowed to be creative, it enhances their ability to express themselves, find calm, and explore their imagination.
Our creative selection includes everything from DIY jewelry and beads to fun experiment sets that spark curiosity and a desire to learn. These are activities where imagination takes center stage—and where there's room to experiment and create something unique. Choose the creative project that piques your child's interest here.
Only Imagination Sets Limits
There are thousands of opportunities to create good, screen-free moments with children. It's about finding the activities and products that suit your needs and interests. At our store, you'll find everything from outdoor play, to scooters and musical instruments, dress-up clothes for role play, and classics like cars, dolls, and farm sets.
Children need to play—not just for fun, but because it's through play that they develop, form relationships, and explore the world. And that's exactly what we want to support at Lirum Larum Leg.
So, next time you hear “Can I watch iPad?”, try saying: “No—but I have another idea…”
Best wishes from
Anja and everyone at Lirum Larum Leg
Frequently Asked Questions:
What can I do to minimize screen time for my child on weekdays?
If you want to reduce screen time for children, start with set screen-free periods during the day—for example, during meals or before bedtime. Make it easy for your child to choose play over screens by offering good alternatives like creative projects, outdoor activities, or exciting games and books.
How do I entertain my child without screens? (screen-free activities for children)
Children often get bored if they lack inspiration—but with products like the Idea Opener or an audiobook with child-friendly headphones, they can quickly find something fun to do. Screen-free play can include baking together, building with LEGO, drawing, role-playing, or listening to stories.
Why is screen-free time important for children? (benefits of reduced screen time)
Screen-free play is crucial for children's development because it strengthens their creativity, social skills, and ability to focus. Without screens, children get the chance to use their bodies, senses, and imagination—all of which contribute positively to well-being and learning.
When is it best to avoid screens for children? (best time for screen-free time)
It's recommended to avoid screens in the morning and before bedtime, as it can affect concentration and sleep. Also, during meals and when spending time with others, screen-free time is important for presence and conversation.
How can I encourage my child to choose play over screens? (motivation for screen-free activities)
Children are motivated by fun and meaningful experiences. Try offering choices: “Do you want to make bead plates or bake a cake?” When you’re engaged and create a secure environment, your child is more likely to choose play over screens.
What toys are good alternatives to screens? (screen-free toys for children)
Good screen-free toys stimulate the imagination and promote concentration. We recommend items like construction toys such as marble runs, magnetic sets, and LEGO, creative sets with beads and painting supplies, role play toys, or quality books that encourage engagement.
How can audiobooks help limit screen time? (audiobooks instead of screens)
Audiobooks stimulate children's imaginations without them staring at a screen. Children imagine the characters and universe themselves—enhancing creativity and language skills. Use wireless headphones for children, so they can easily move around and get absorbed in stories.
What activities can I do with my child without a screen? (fun ideas for screen-free play)
Here are some of the most popular screen-free activities:
- Play TV kitchen and bake a cake together
- Draw, paint, or make bead plates
- Go out in nature and collect things
- Build with construction toys
- Play role play with costumes or figures
- Listen to an audiobook and draw what you hear
How can I encourage my child to play more outside? (outdoor play instead of screen time)
Make being outside fun! Use inspiration from 1,000 Hours Outdoors, fly a kite, play ball, go on a treasure hunt, or jump in puddles. Nature is full of possibilities—sometimes all it takes is an idea to get started.
Is it normal for children to say they're bored without a screen? (what should I do when my child is bored?)
Yes—and it's actually very healthy. Boredom allows for imagination and creativity. Use the Idea Opener to kickstart play and help your child find something to do. Many children need a little nudge—and then the play takes off on its own.
