With devices dominating so much of our daily lives, many families are seeking ways to spend quality time together without screens. The beauty of stepping back from technology? It brings families closer, creates priceless memories, and fosters creativity. What’s old is new again, and some classic, screen-free activities are making a big comeback. Here’s a list of delightful (and impactful) ways your family can unplug, reconnect, and have fun together.

1. Board Games and Card Games

Board games are no longer just decorative pieces gathering dust on shelves. Families are rediscovering the joy of sitting around the table for some friendly (or hilariously competitive) gameplay. Classics like Monopoly, Scrabble, and Uno stand the test of time, while newer games like Catan, Ticket to Ride, and Exploding Kittens add contemporary twists to family game nights. Whether you prefer intricate strategies or lighthearted fun, there’s a game for every age group and interest.

Playing board games offers more than just entertainment. These games encourage teamwork, strategic thinking, and problem-solving. Even better, they create opportunities for families to talk, laugh, and bond in a way no digital game can replicate. Card games, too, bring endless options, from teaching kids classics like Crazy Eights to introducing them to more challenging games like Euchre or Rummy.

Pro Tip: Designate a weekly family game night, complete with fun snacks and a rotating “Game Master” who picks and explains the game. Consider trying quirky games you’ve never played before!

2. Nature Walks and Hiking Adventures

There’s something rejuvenating about disconnecting from devices and stepping into nature. Whether it’s a simple stroll in a local park, a hike through your favorite trail, or even a scavenger hunt in your neighborhood, exploring the outdoors brings physical and emotional benefits. The smell of fresh air, the sound of birds, the feel of the trail under your feet – these sensory experiences are a refreshing change from clicking and scrolling.

To make your nature escapades even more engaging for kids, turn them into themed outings. For example, you might look for specific plants, wildlife, or rock formations. A birdwatching session with a checklist can transform a walk into an exciting adventure.

Pro Tip: Create a personalized “family nature journal” where everyone can document their discoveries with drawings, pressed leaves, or notes about their findings. Bonus? It becomes a treasured keepsake over time.

3. Cooking or Baking Together

The kitchen isn’t just for whipping up quick meals; it’s a place where real family bonding happens. Cooking and baking together allows everyone to collaborate, learn essential life skills, and, of course, indulge in some delicious results! Start simple with fun recipes like build-your-own pizzas, classic chocolate chip cookies, or colorful cupcakes. Over time, you can level up and try more challenging dishes like homemade pasta or even international cuisines.

Imagine the joy your family will feel creating a meal from scratch and then sitting down at the table to savor the fruits of your labor. Beyond the fun, the kitchen becomes a space to teach younger family members lessons about math (measuring ingredients), science (baking reactions), and responsibility (cleaning up).

Pro Tip: Start a “family recipe book” where everyone contributes dishes they love. Make it extra fun by documenting each recipe with photos of the cooking process and the finished product.

4. Puzzles and DIY Projects

Jigsaw puzzles have made a triumphant comeback, offering countless hours of screen-free entertainment. Whether you’re piecing together a 500-piece puzzle or tackling an ambitious 2000-piece challenge, puzzles promote focus, patience, and teamwork. Colorful puzzles featuring fantasy scenes or famous landmarks are a big hit with kids and adults alike.

Want to tap into your family’s creative side? DIY projects offer a wide range of possibilities. You can build birdhouses, paint canvases, or even assemble one-of-a-kind LEGO creations. Crafting also provides a unique way for family members to express themselves artistically. Handmade gifts, for example, make heartwarming surprises for birthdays or holidays.

Pro Tip: Dedicate a corner of your house as a “puzzle zone” or “craft station” so projects and puzzles can be worked on gradually. Leave everything set up, so it’s easy to jump back in when you have free time.

5. Backyard Games and Sports

The backyard can be so much more than an empty space. Simple games like kickball, tag, hopscotch, and hide-and-seek are perfect for energetic family playtime. Classic activities like sack races, three-legged races, or tug-of-war add hilarious moments that’ll have everyone laughing uncontrollably. For less active ideas, consider bocce ball, frisbee, or even water balloon fights during warmer days.

Don’t limit yourselves to competitions, though. Your backyard is also an ideal setting for quiet bonding moments. Stargazing on a clear night, having a picnic lunch, or sitting around a small fire pit roasting marshmallows can offer just as many great memories.

Pro Tip: Keep a set of essentials (like a soccer ball, jump rope, or chalk) in an easily accessible spot, so outdoor fun is always just a step away.

6. Reading Aloud as a Family

Think reading aloud is just for kids’ bedtime stories? Think again. Families of all ages are discovering the joy of shared reading. When everyone gathers to experience a captivating story together, it sparks meaningful discussions, strengthens family connections, and fosters lifelong love for books. Choose timeless reads like Harry Potter, The Hobbit, or even short adventure tales like those by Roald Dahl.

If your family prefers variety, take turns picking different genres. One week might feature a mystery; the next could focus on humor or historical tales. Reading aloud also improves kids’ listening, comprehension, and vocabulary skills.

Pro Tip: Transform your reading space with blankets, cushions, and twinkling string lights. Add warm drinks or snacks for peak cozy vibes.

7. Gardening Together

Gardening connects families to nature in a hands-on, satisfying way. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or just a few pots on a patio, planting seeds and watching them grow becomes an enjoyable shared project. Younger children love the excitement of planting new flowers or vegetables, while older family members can experiment with creating beautiful garden layouts.

Gardening also teaches important lessons about patience, responsibility, and the rewards of hard work. Families can enjoy fresh herbs, vegetables, or flowers together, making this activity even more meaningful.

Pro Tip: Assign small individual plots or pots to each family member, so everyone has a chance to grow their favorite plant. A sunflower competition (Who can grow the tallest?) is always a hit.

8. Storytelling and Memory Sharing

Storytelling bridges generations and fosters a deep family connection. Settle in with some snacks and blankets, then take turns telling personal memories, family history, or made-up stories. Grandparents’ tales of their childhood adventures can captivate young listeners, while kids’ imaginative stories will leave every adult grinning.

For a fun twist, use storytelling prompts or games to spark creativity. “Once upon a time in a galaxy far away...” can turn into a collaborative family saga that you’ll all remember for years to come.

Pro Tip: Record family storytelling sessions to preserve these valuable memories. They’ll become treasures for future generations and make great additions to family videos.

9. Community Volunteering

Volunteering introduces families to the rewarding experience of giving back together. Whether it’s organizing a donation drive, cleaning up a local park, or serving meals to those in need, giving time (rather than screen attention!) builds compassion and teaches kids the importance of community. It also helps you see the world beyond your immediate routines.

Parents can encourage active discussions about what causes their family might support. Whether you focus on animal shelters, environmental cleanups, or elder care, giving back becomes an empowering way to spend quality time together.

Pro Tip: Look for “family-friendly” volunteer opportunities through local charities or nonprofits. Many organizations offer flexible one-day events that are perfect for first-timers.

10. Camping (Even in the Backyard!)

Camping doesn’t always require a trip to a big national park. Transform your backyard into a camper’s paradise with just a tent, some sleeping bags, and perhaps a small fire pit. Roast s’mores, sing songs, or tell spooky campfire stories under the stars. It’s a wonderful way to bond without needing an elaborate setup or long travel plans.

Want to make it more interesting? Introduce simple survival-style challenges, like figuring out how to tie knots or identifying constellations. These add educational elements to the fun experience.

Pro Tip: Declare the camping zone a “tech-free zone” for the night. Swap phones for flashlights and spend the evening fully immersed in your backyard adventure.

The Magic of Unplugged Time

Unplugging doesn’t have to feel like a sacrifice. Instead, it’s an opportunity to strengthen the bonds that matter most. Whether it’s playing a board game, trying a DIY project, or roasting marshmallows around a campfire, these screen-free activities keep families connected, present, and engaged.

Which of these activities speaks to you the most? Pick one (or a few!) to try this week, and you’ll quickly see why these timeless classics are making such an incredible comeback. Enjoy the moments, laugh often, and create those unforgettable memories with your loved ones.