With the “Wait Until 8th” movement gaining traction and more families craving a tech-free summer, now is the perfect time to unplug and reconnect with simple joys. Whether you’re easing off screen time or going totally device-free, here are old-school, hands-on activities your kids will love and some local spots in Essex County that support this low-tech lifestyle!
20+ Screen-Free Ideas to Try at Home or Around Town
- Play with play dough 🟣 or make your own at home
- Write a letter to a grandparent or friend ✉️
- Finger paint-or try a drop-in art class at Express Yourself Studios in Maplewood 🎨
- Make a phone call on a real phone 📞
- Build with Magna-Tiles or LEGOs-check out the LEGO table at Montclair Public Library 🧱
- Play a board or card game ♟️🃏
- Bake something together-grab supplies from Liv Breads in Millburn for inspiration 🍪
- Jump on a trampoline or head to Brookdale Park to run and play 🏃
- Go for a walk or bike ride at South Mountain Reservation 🚲
- Draw or color under a shady tree 🌳
- Do a craft-pick up supplies at a store
- Build a puzzle together 🧩
- Pretend play-let your child “run a restaurant” with play food
- Dance it out-create a family dance party in your living room or attend a kids’ class
- Visit local parks for fresh air and space to roam
💡 Make It Easy
Create a “Screen-Free Summer” jar: write activities on slips of paper and let your kids pick one each day. Or make a weekly challenge chart, bonus points if they come up with ideas too!
Essex County is full of natural spaces, creative studios, and free libraries that encourage exploration without a device. A screen-free summer doesn’t have to be hard. It just takes a little intention and a lot of imagination!