50+ Screen Free Summer Activities for Kids
If you're anything like me, summer starts with the best intentions - and then somehow ends with a lot more screen time than you planned. Oops.
Between juggling meals, activities, and just trying to enjoy the season, it can feel overwhelming to constantly come up with new ideas. That’s why having a go-to list of screen free summer activities can make all the difference.
This list has 50+ simple, realistic ideas you can actually use - no elaborate prep required. I've also included a free printable list to keep on hand all summer long!
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Screen Free Q & A
What are some easy screen free summer activities for kids?
Some of the easiest screen free activities include outdoor play, water activities, simple crafts, reading time, scavenger hunts, and helping with everyday tasks like cooking or gardening.
How do I keep my kids entertained without screens all summer?
The key is creating a flexible routine and rotating activities. You don’t need to entertain your kids all day—just provide options they can choose from.
What are low-prep screen free activities for busy moms?
Think simple: sidewalk chalk, water play, bike rides, puzzles, coloring, and backyard picnics. Activities that require little setup are the ones you’ll actually stick with.
Why are screen free activities important for kids?
Screen free activities help support creativity, independence, physical movement, and social skills—all especially important during the slower rhythm of summer.
50+ Screen Free Activities Kids Will Love (+ a free printable list!)
Outdoor Screen Free Summer Activities
- Backyard obstacle course
- Nature scavenger hunt
- Bike rides around the neighborhood
- Sidewalk chalk art
- Sprinkler play
- Bubbles
- Water balloon games - try these reusable water balloons!
- Picnic in the backyard
- Bug hunting (this bug vacuum is so fun!)
- Plant seeds
- Build a fort outside
- Kickball game
- Frisbee
- Simple games like 'Red Light, Green Light'
Creative & Craft-Based Screen Free Activities
- Friendship bracelets
- Painting with watercolors
- Painting rocks or shells
- Coloring books or printable pages
- Create your own stickers
- Make homemade playdough
- Create a summer scrapbook
- Draw a 'dream summer day'
- Make origami or paper airplanes
- Build with LEGO or blocks
- Make greeting cards for family
- Tie dye shirts
Simple At-Home Screen Free Activities
- Puzzle time
- Reading challenge
- Board games
- Card games (we love Uno or Flip 7)
- Crossword puzzles
- Word searches
- Independent play bins
- Dress-up and pretend play
- Build a blanket fort indoors
- Listen to audiobooks
- Quiet time with music
- Dance party
- Make homemade popsicles
Water Play Ideas (Always a win!)
- Wash toys in a bin of soapy water
- DIY car wash for bikes and scooters
- Splash pad fun
- Ice cube sensory play
- Water table play
- Fill balloons with water and paint (messy but fun!)
- Slip and slide
Everyday Life Activities Kids Can Help With
- Help prep meals
- Wash fruits and veggies
- Cut fruits and veggies
- Water plants
- Organize toys
- Help fold and put away laundry
- Help put away groceries
- Help pack snacks for outings (try a snackle box!)
- Bake simple recipes together
How to Make Screen Free Summer Activities Actually Work
Here’s the part most lists leave out - you don’t need to fill every hour.
Instead, try this simple rhythm:
- Morning: Outdoor activity
- Midday: Quiet time activity
- Afternoon: Free play or simple activity
Rotating through a few go-to screen free summer activities each day helps kids know what to expect—and gives you a little breathing room, too.
A Simple Tip for Moms
Create a small 'activity bin' with easy screen free activities your kids can grab anytime. This works especially well for younger kids.
Think:
- Chalk
- Bubbles
- Coloring supplies
- Cards or small games
- Legos
When kids can see their options, they’re much more likely to play independently.
Final Thoughts
There's no judgement in how much or how little time you allow your kids screens during the summer. I know my kids use them daily, in different ways.
But if you want to encourage more screen-free time, print out the list below, and you'll have 50+ ideas right at your fingertips.
Want more?
Summer Bucket List Ideas for Families
How to Have an Organized Summer with Kids
Tips for Summer Travel with Kids
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