Family-Friendly Ways to Celebrate the Holidays Without Screen Time
The holiday season is one of the most magical times of the year, but for many families, it also comes with extra screen time—school is out, routines shift, and kids naturally drift toward tablets, phones, and TV. While screens certainly have their place, December offers a wonderful opportunity to unplug and make memories the old-fashioned way. If you’re looking for fun, meaningful, and screen-free activities to enjoy with your children this holiday season, you’re in the right place. Here are some engaging, family-friendly ways to celebrate the holidays without relying on screens—and create moments kids will remember long after winter break ends.
Bring the Magic Home With Hands-On Holiday Crafts
Kids LOVE creating, and December is the perfect time to break out the craft supplies. From homemade ornaments and paper snowflakes to gingerbread houses and hand-painted gift bags, holiday crafts give children the chance to express themselves while building fine motor skills. Even simple projects—like cutting out stars or making a holiday countdown chain—can spark joy and keep little hands busy. Spread newspapers on the table, turn on some festive music, and watch creativity take over! Click the links below for ideas!
Jelly Jar Snowglobes & Arendelle Ice Cream Dessert
Pretzel Pine Trees & Snow Photo Ornaments
Tissue Paper Stained Glass Votive
Explore Indoor Play Spaces and Activity Centers
When temperatures drop and outdoor options become limited, indoor play spaces can be a lifesaver. Look for kid-friendly centers that offer climbing structures, imaginative play zones, craft stations, or arcade fun. Hmmm….seems like we may know of an option for this. 😊 These spaces give children a safe environment to burn energy, socialize, and engage their curiosity—no screens required. Bonus: It’s a perfect outing for working parents needing structured playtime options during winter break.
Start a New Family Tradition
Family traditions are the heartbeat of the holidays, and they don’t have to cost a thing. Try picking one or two new rituals this year—like matching pajama night, cookie baking day, a “hot chocolate taste test,” or reading a holiday story together each evening. Kids thrive on routine and anticipation, and these simple traditions become treasured memories. You might be surprised at how quickly they become part of your family’s yearly celebrations.
Host a Holiday-Themed Scavenger Hunt
Scavenger hunts are fantastic screen-free fun for kids of all ages. Hide holiday-themed items—like bells, candy canes, snowflakes, tiny ornaments, or paper gingerbread people—around your home and give kids clues or a checklist. You can make it simple for younger children or add riddles and puzzles for older ones. Want to take it up a notch? Add a small prize or warm treat at the end, like a cup of cocoa or a holiday sticker pack.
Turn Ordinary Moments Into Holiday Adventures
Winter break doesn’t have to be packed with big outings. Sometimes the smallest activities can feel the most magical. Try:
- Building a fort and telling stories inside
- Going on a neighborhood walk to spot holiday lights
- Having a family board-game marathon
- Making homemade pizza or holiday-shaped pancakes
- Hosting a “family talent show”
- Creating a gratitude list for the year
These screen-free activities encourage connection, imagination, and laughter—everything the holiday season is about.
Give the Gift of Play Through Experiences
If you’re looking for holiday gifts that don’t involve screens, think about experience-based options. Gift cards for indoor play centers, family entertainment venues, museums, or activity classes allow children to choose their own adventure while encouraging hands-on fun. These gifts feel exciting to kids and offer families something to look forward to long after the holidays end.
A Season to Slow Down and Reconnect
Screens may be part of everyday life, but the holidays offer a rare chance to slow down and reconnect face-to-face. By incorporating screen-free activities, exploring local play spaces, and establishing meaningful traditions, you can create a holiday season filled with joy, laughter, and memories your kids will carry with them.
Here’s to a magical, unplugged December filled with togetherness and fun!