We all know it—it's healthy and beneficial for children to take a break from screens. Yet, many kids—and adults—often find themselves in front of a tablet or phone when looking for entertainment. It's easy. Quick. Right at hand. Perhaps that’s precisely why it’s crucial to remember how much children gain from classic, imaginative play. The kind where creativity runs free, hands are busy, and boredom can lead to innovation. In this blog post, we’ve gathered a range of ideas and products that serve as perfect alternatives to screen time. Activities that bolster children's development, imagination, and social skills—while creating shared memories and togetherness.
1,000 Hours Outside – Inspiration for Outdoor Play
Nothing beats fresh air, muddy boots, and rosy cheeks. The book 1,000 Hours Outside is a treasure trove of ideas for outdoor play and activities. It offers specific suggestions on how your family can spend more time together in nature—without needing extensive equipment or lengthy preparations. If you love being outside and experiencing the world, this book is a must-have: "Turn off the screens - turn on the play."
Children feel happier and more energized outdoors, strengthening both their motor skills and imagination. They learn to use their bodies, interpret surroundings, and invent games—everything that screens can't offer. This is pure, sensory childhood that enriches both body and mind.
The Idea Opener – When Your Child Says, “I’m Bored!”
Nothing makes my own child dig in their heels like the words “No, not the screen right now.” The reaction is immediate: “But I’m bored!” That's when the Idea Opener becomes our lifesaver.
This brilliant little game, developed by parents Amalie and Jens, is designed for those moments when boredom sets in. The game includes 75 creative and screen-free ideas for play and activities that children can engage with on their own or with adults. It’s simple, tangible, and acts 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. It stimulates a child’s imagination, as the pictures are created in their mind, not on the screen. It’s a calming, introspective activity that allows children to step back and find peace in a busy day.
With our selection of child-friendly Bluetooth headphones, audiobooks can easily connect to a phone, allowing your child to sit back and immerse themselves in the world of stories. Sound stimulates the imagination, and many children need just that—a break where thoughts can soar. Discover wireless headphones from Lalarma, featuring a max volume of 85 decibels to protect children's hearing. The headphones are rechargeable and can play for up to 5.5 hours on a single charge. They're designed with super soft ear pads and are 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 by the kitchen counter with an apron and grand gestures like a real '80s host. It was the play where you learned to taste, mix, measure, and take pride in your little kitchen project.
When you invite your child into the kitchen—whether baking rolls, making patties, or mixing cake batter—you provide more than just culinary knowledge. You create closeness, self-confidence, and a sense of belonging. It’s hands-on learning, and it’s something children remember and grow from. What will you make in the kitchen? Will you bake rolls or a cake? Create easy kids' dishes that involve cutting and chopping? Can't decide? We offer cookbooks and baking books for children with simple recipes, beautiful pictures, and inspiring guidance. Get cooking with Pippi Longstocking or Donald Duck, or pick one of our other fantastic children’s cookbooks.
Construction Toys – Play and Learn in One
When children build, assemble, and construct, they activate logical thinking, creativity, and fine motor skills. Construction toys like Quercetti marble runs, magnetic toys, or LEGO for older children provide hours of immersion.
Unlike screens, which often provide ready-made solutions, here the child must figure out how to assemble something. It hones problem-solving and perseverance—two skills that are invaluable both now and later in life.
See our full range of construction toys here
Creative Play – Let the Imagination Run Free
Crafting with beads, painting, drawing, making jewelry or other creative activities are always enjoyable and highly developmental. When children are allowed to be creative, their ability to express themselves, find calm, and explore their imagination is strengthened.
Our creative selection includes everything from make-your-own-jewelry and beads to fun experiment kits that spark the child’s curiosity and eagerness to learn. These are activities where imagination is the main character—and where there is room to experiment and create something unique. Simply choose the creative project that captures your child’s interest here.
Only the Imagination Sets Limits
There are thousands of opportunities to create enjoyable, screen-free times with your children. It’s about finding activities and products that suit your specific needs and interests. With us, you’ll find everything from outdoor play, scooters, musical instruments, costumes 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 discover the world. And that is exactly what we aim to support at Lirum Larum Leg.
So next time you hear, “Can I use the iPad?” try responding with: “No—but I have another idea…”
Best regards from
Anja and the rest of Lirum Larum Leg
Frequently Asked Questions:
What can I do to minimize my child's screen time during the week?
To reduce screen time for children, start with scheduled screen-free periods each day—such as during meals or before bedtime. Make it easy for your child to choose play over screens by offering great alternatives like creative projects, outdoor activities, or exciting games and books.
How do I entertain my child without screens? (screen-free activities for kids)
Children often get bored without 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 be anything from baking together, building with LEGO, drawing, role-playing, or listening to stories.
Why is screen-free time important for children? (benefits of less screen time)
Screen-free play is important for children's development because it enhances their creativity, social skills, and ability to concentrate. Without screens, children have the chance to use their bodies, senses, and imagination—all of which positively contribute to well-being and learning.
When is it best to avoid screens for children? (best times for screen-free time)
It's recommended to avoid screens in the morning and before bedtime, as they can affect concentration and sleep. During meals and interactions with others is screen-free time crucial for presence and conversation.
How do I get my child to choose play over screens? (motivation for screen-free activities)
Children are motivated by fun and meaningful experiences. Offer choices: “Would you like to make bead designs or bake a cake?” When you’re engaged and create a safe environment, children will more often choose play over screens.
What toys are good as alternatives to screens? (screen-free toys for kids)
Good screen-free toys stimulate imagination and encourage concentration. We recommend construction toys such as marble runs, magnetic kits, and LEGO, creative sets with beads and paints, role-play toys, or engaging books that invite absorption.
How can audiobooks help limit screen time? (audiobooks instead of screens)
Audiobooks activate children's imagination without them staring at a screen. They picture characters and worlds in their mind, which boosts creativity and language skills. Use wireless headphones for children so they can easily move around and dive into the stories.
What activities can I do with my child without screens? (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 designs
- Explore nature and collect items
- Build with construction toys
- Engage in role play with costumes or figures
- Listen to an audiobook and draw what you hear
How do I encourage my child to play outside more? (outdoor play over screens)
Make outdoor play fun! Use inspiration from 1,000 Hours Outside, fly a kite, play ball, go on a treasure hunt, or jump in puddles. Nature is full of possibilities—and often all it takes is one idea to get started.
Is it normal for children to say they’re bored without screens? (what do I do when my child is bored?)
Yes—and it's actually quite healthy. Boredom provides space for imagination and creativity. Use the Idea Opener to kickstart play and help your child find something to do. Many children need a little push—and then the play takes off on its own.
