Screens may feel like the easiest way to keep kids engaged in public, and it is completely understandable that so many caregivers rely on them. Truly, we have all been there. But if you have ever wished for realistic, sustainable alternatives that do not involve handing over a device, you are not alone. The good news is that keeping kids engaged without screens is possible – and it can make outings feel more connected, calmer, and genuinely more meaningful.

To help families build healthier habits, we spoke with Katrina Lien, Program Development Specialist at Sanford fit, and a mother of two. She shared powerful insights into why screen-free moments matter, caregiver-friendly strategies on how to involve kids in everyday environments, and items she keeps on hand to make outings smoother.

Why Screen-Free Moments Matter More Than We Think

“Without screens, children are more present in the moment. They learn to manage boredom, frustration, and patience, which are important emotional regulation skills. Instead of relying on instant digital stimulation, they begin to self-soothe, use their imagination, and build resilience. These moments also create more opportunities for connection with caregivers, strengthening emotional bonds,” says Katrina. She explained that public spaces naturally support social growth. She highlights, “Children observe others, make eye contact, interpret facial expressions, and sometimes engage in conversation or play. These real-world interactions help them develop empathy, communication skills, and confidence navigating social situations which are things screens can’t fully replicate.” There are developmental benefits too. Katrina explains, “Non-screen engagement encourages curiosity and active learning. Children might ask questions, explore their surroundings, or engage in creative play like storytelling or pretend games. This supports language development, attention span, and problem-solving skills. They also become more aware of their environment, which strengthens cognitive and sensory development.” By choosing non-screen engagement, we help children build foundational life skills such as patience, observation, creativity, and human connection.

Katrina’s Screen-Free Essentials

1. For Creativity & Imagination

Katrina keeps items that spark open-ended play:

2. For Fine Motor Skills & Focus

Compact, tactile items help kids stay engaged longer:

3. For Language & Thinking

She leans on conversation-based tools:

4. For Sensory & Calming Activities

These tools are perfect for overstimulating environments:

5. For Reading & Quiet Time

Katrina’s Tip: Keeping a dedicated “travel toy bin” by the front door is a simple way to make outings and trips easier. These toys should not be part of everyday play at home – saving them only for outings keeps them fresh and exciting when you bring them along. Having everything in one spot also makes it easy to grab what you need on the way out and return items when you get home. Rotating these toys every so often helps maintain interest and prevents boredom. It is also helpful to keep a small backup bag in the car with a few extra items. That way, you are covered if an outing runs longer than expected or you leave the house in a rush.

How to Involve Kids in Their Surroundings (Instead of Distracting Them)

She encourages caregivers to treat public spaces as learning environments. “Encourage kids to notice their surrounds such as colors, sounds, and people. Simple prompts like, ‘What do you see that is red?’ or ‘What do you think that person is doing?’ helps build attention, language and critical thinking skills,” she suggests. When at the grocery store, give kids small tasks. They can help find items, count produce, compare sizes, or check things off of a list. This builds responsibility, math skills, and a sense of contribution. Allowing kids to be part of the process like ordering their own food, handing an item to the cashier, or checking in at an appointment are all interactions that build independence and communication skills. Instead of distracting kids to pass the time, we can include them in what’s happening around them because what they really want is connection and involvement. Katrina notes, “Public spaces are great for modeling and practicing manners such as saying “please” and “thank you,” making eye contact, and being patient. Gently coaching kids through these moments help build confidences and social awareness which is hard to do when a kid is distracted by a screen.” By treating everyday outings as opportunities for engagement rather than something to “get through,” caregivers help children build real-world skills while staying connected and present.

A Note of Encouragement for Caregivers

Caring for kids in public can feel overwhelming at times, and it is completely normal to lean on screens when you need a moment of calm. “You’re not alone, and you’re not doing anything ‘wrong’. Screens have become an easy, accessible tool because modern life is busy and often overwhelming. Feeling stretched thin doesn’t mean you’re failing, it means you’re human,” she reassures. Katrina believes that reframing the goal is helpful. “This isn’t about eliminating screens or doing things perfectly, it’s about small, intentional shifts. Even short moments of connection or engagement without a screen can have a meaningful impact. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing,” she explains.

Katrina explains that alternatives do not need to be elaborate or time-consuming. “Simple things like talking about what you see, letting kids help with small tasks, or playing quick verbal games can go a long way. Often, it’s less about having the “perfect” activity and more about being present and involving them in everyday moments,” she advises. A helpful mindset shift might be: instead of asking, “How do I avoid screens all the time?” try asking, “Where can I create small moments of connection today?” Those small moments add up and they truly matter.

Balancing Realistic Expectations

“Balancing realistic expectations with the desire for screen-free moments starts with letting go of the idea that it has to be all or nothing. The goal is to make a positive impact. It helps to focus on intentional moments. Caregivers can choose small windows of time like a short wait at a restaurant, part of a grocery trip, or the first 10 minutes in a waiting room to prioritize connection and engagement. Even brief, consistent efforts add up over time,” Katrina highlights.

It is also important to plan for real life. Kids get tired, outings run long, and caregivers get overwhelmed. Having a few simple, screen-free options ready like a small travel toy kit or easy games makes it easier to try but remember it is okay if it doesn’t always work. Flexibility is key. Another helpful shift is redefining success. Instead of expecting kids to be perfectly content without screens, expect some boredom, restlessness, or pushback. That is part of the process. Those moments are where important skills like patience and creativity begin to grow.

Most importantly, give yourself permission to use screens when needed. Balance means recognizing your own capacity, too. Choosing a screen in a stressful moment does not undo the other intentional choices you have made.

Ready to Build Your Screen-Free Kit?

Check out Katrina’s picks to add to your screen-free kit.

For littles:

For olders:

Disclaimer: The links provided in this article are for your convenience and are neither affiliate links nor sponsored content. We share these resources purely to help you create a screen-free tool kit for your kids.

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