The best learning happens when the screens are off and the imagination is on!

In a world where screens are everywhere—tablets, smartphones, laptops, TVs, and even watches- many children are becoming more and more accustomed to spending large chunks of their day glued to these devices. While technology undoubtedly has its perks, I can’t help but wonder: What are we sacrificing in the process?

I’ve been thinking a lot about screen-free play lately, and it feels like now, more than ever, is a crucial time to remind ourselves of the importance of allowing our children the space to engage in creative, hands-on activities that are free from the distractions of screens. Trust me, it’s not always easy, even adults have a hard time regulating their screen time. Sometimes, giving your child a tablet can feel like a quick fix, but the truth is, we’re missing out on some vital developmental benefits when we bypass traditional forms of play in favour of screens. In a world overflowing with digital tools, it is important to understand why screen-free Play is essential for healthy development in children.

WHY SCREEN-FREE PLAY SHOULD BE A PRIORITY

When children engage in screen-free play, their imagination is given the freedom to roam. Think about it: when your child builds something with blocks or plays pretend, they’re not just passing the time—they’re actively engaging their creative muscles. This type of open-ended play is what encourages problem-solving, innovation, and the ability to think outside the box.

According to research from the American Academy of Pediatrics, imaginative play helps children develop cognitive skills that lay the foundation for future problem-solving and creative thinking. Whether it’s pretending to be a doctor, a teacher, or a superhero, the possibilities are endless in the world of screen-free play. When we give our kids the space to create, they’re learning to think for themselves and generate new ideas.

One of the most powerful aspects of screen-free play is the opportunity for social interaction. Children who engage in activities like board games, pretend play or collaborative building projects have a chance to develop essential social skills such as communication, teamwork, and empathy. Through these interactions, they pick up vital skills like sharing, negotiating, and resolving conflicts—things that screens just can’t teach.  Psychologist, Dr Catherine Birndorf, says that "screen time often leads to solitary activity, which reduces children’s opportunities to practice social skills". But as they interact, they develop the emotional intelligence needed to build meaningful relationships later in life.

It’s no secret that children need physical activity for healthy growth and development. Screen time, on the other hand, can often lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which is linked to obesity, poor posture, and even mental health struggles. It is recommended that children, especially under the age of 5, should have a few hours of physical activity each day, and this includes play that requires movement, like running, jumping, climbing, and even just dancing around the house💃.

Activities like building with large blocks, playing with playdough, or using Montessori toys that require manipulation and coordination help children build fine and gross motor skills. These physical tasks, done without the distraction of screens, encourage children to develop better coordination, balance, and strength.

Have you ever noticed how a child seems to be in a better mood after a session of hands-on play? That’s because screen-free play offers opportunities for emotional regulation and expression. Children who engage in activities like art projects, building sets, or problem-solving games are more likely to learn to handle their emotions in healthy ways.

When kids play without the distractions of technology, they are free to express their feelings through their creations (drawing, painting...). These forms of self-expression can help kids process their emotions and develop coping skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

While screen time can be educational, it can also overstimulate a child’s brain, causing sleep problems, low attention span and focus on tasks. We’ve all seen it—after a couple of hours on a tablet or watching TV, children often become hyperactive or struggle to calm down. This overstimulation is the opposite of what they experience during screen-free play, which often leads to calm, focused play sessions that promote mindfulness and creativity, and they are able to sleep better at night.

In a world filled with screens, it’s more important than ever to encourage screen-free play for the healthy development of our children. By offering creative, social, physical, and emotional play opportunities, we’re setting our children up for a future filled with curiosity, confidence, and a strong sense of self. So, let’s celebrate the power of screen-free play—because sometimes, the best learning happens when the screens are off and the imagination is on!