Why We Went Tablet-Free and How We Stay That Way
A couple of years ago, we introduced tablets to our kids. At the time, my oldest was about three years old, and we quickly noticed a dramatic shift in her behavior. She would become completely dysregulated after using the tablet, and when it was time to put it away, tantrums were inevitable. It didn’t take long for us to realize that this wasn’t working for our family. So, we made the decision to go tablet-free.
That’s not to say we’re a no-screen family. We still allow TV (or what we call “big screens”), and we use it in a way that feels intentional. If you’re considering making the switch to a tablet-free household, here’s what has worked for us.
1. Prioritizing Time Outside
One of the easiest ways to keep kids engaged without tablets is getting outside. This is a game-changer because it doesn’t require us to constantly entertain them. Whether we’re going for a walk, riding bikes, or taking their remote-control cars out for a spin, outside time is the simplest way to pass time without screens.
2. Embracing Boredom
I fully believe kids should be bored. Just this past weekend, mine spent over an hour playing with recycled boxes and another half-hour rolling a roll of duct tape between each other’s legs. The creativity that comes from unstructured play is incredible. They don’t need constant stimulation, they need space to explore, experiment, and use their imagination.
3. Choosing TV With Intention
While we don’t use tablets, we do allow TV, mostly on weekends. Our preference is a family movie, but when we opt for shows, we stick with a few we love, like Bluey and select Disney programs. It’s all about balance and choosing what works for your family.
4. Finding Low-Stimulation Alternatives
As our oldest has started asking for more electronic-based activities, we’ve introduced alternatives that don’t have the same overstimulating effects as a tablet. One of our favorite finds has been the DigiPet (basically a modern version of a Tamagotchi). There are also simple handheld games that provide entertainment without the sensory overload of a tablet.
5. Simplifying the Playroom
We’ve intentionally stripped down our playroom from what it used to be. It’s not strictly Montessori, but we’ve found that the simpler, the better. A clutter-free, organized space helps kids know where and how to play independently. Our essentials include:
• Dress-up costumes for imaginative play
• An arts and crafts table for creativity
• The Nugget, a great way for them to get out energy while also doubling as a comfy play couch
6. Playing Board Games as a Family
One of our favorite family activities,
especially now that our oldest is five, is playing board games. While our three-year-old still loses interest quickly, once kids hit four or five, board games become an amazing way to pass time together. Our current favorite is Trouble, but I’ll link a few more that we love below!
Going tablet-free was a choice that felt right for our family, and while it hasn’t always been easy, it’s been worth it. If you’re thinking about making the shift, start small, give yourself grace, and find what works for your kids.
I’ll link a few of our favorite toys and board games that have helped us maintain a tablet-free home below!
Click HERE for a link to the toys and games!
Xx,
Shelby