Looking for a way to disconnect this summer? The school holidays are a fantastic opportunity for kids (and parents) to relax and spend quality time together after the busy term period. However, if you’re concerned about your kids spending too much time glued to their devices, instead of enjoying the fresh air or getting hands-on, then we may have the solution.
In this blog, we’ll explore how much screen time is too much, the benefits of unplugging, and share six screen-free activities for kids to try this summer. These ideas will not only keep them entertained but also encourage physical activity, creativity, outdoor exploration, and may even help them discover new hobbies!
How much screen time is too much for kids?
Gaming consoles, social media apps, TVs and streaming services—they’re all part of our daily lives. However, with two-thirds of children online via a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, and 91% aged 3-17 owning their own mobile phone, how do you decide how much screen time is too much for your child?
While the online world offers valuable opportunities for learning, creativity, and connection, it also carries risks, especially when usage becomes excessive or unbalanced.
That’s why it’s important to take a closer look at both the positives and negatives of screen use. By understanding the full picture, you’ll be better equipped to set healthy habits that work for your family. Here’s a list of the effects of screen time:
Positive effects of screen time
- Learning & creativity:
Educational apps, online classes and documentary films can spark children’s curiosity, and even support school subjects in a more engaging way. - Social connection:
Messaging, gaming, and video‑chat apps help kids stay connected with friends and family, even during the holidays or when living far away. - Skill building:
Video tutorials can teach everything from drawing and music to baking or learning new languages—skills kids might not pick up elsewhere.
Negative effects of screen time
- Physical health:
Long periods sitting still can lead to weight gain and poor posture. Excessive screen time may also cause eye strain and headaches without regular breaks. - Mental health:
Studies have linked excessive screen time to disrupted sleep, increased anxiety, low mood and problems with focusing at home or at school. - Family disconnect:
Screen usage can easily fragment family time and reduce meaningful face‑to‑face interaction at mealtimes, during car journeys, or even while relaxing at home.
The benefits of unplugging
Clearly, there are two sides to every story, when it comes to screen time. While technology has its place, encouraging children to unplug, even just for a short period, can bring a wide range of mental, physical, and social benefits.
Be it swapping scrolling for a nature walk or trading YouTube for painting, taking regular breaks from devices helps kids reset, recharge, and reconnect with the world around them. Here’s why unplugging is healthy:
Promotes an active lifestyle
Spending too much time on our screens can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which in turn can cause several physical health problems (e.g. weight gain, eye strain, lower energy levels) simply because the body isn’t moving enough to burn energy, strengthen muscles, or keep the heart and joints healthy.
Taking regular breaks encourages kids to move more, whether it’s riding a bike, climbing trees, playing football in the park or walking the dog. Physical activity helps build strength, improves coordination and boosts overall well-being in a fun, natural way.
Reduces stress and anxiety
Excessive screen time, particularly on social media, can overwhelm young minds with constant pings, notifications, and information overload, often adding pressure to stay connected and keep up with their peers and societal pressure. Unplugging gives kids space to relax, slow down and be present.
Activities such as drawing, journaling, or simply being immersed in a natural setting and watching the clouds pass by can help reduce stress and calm the nervous system. Even 20 minutes outdoors has been shown to lower cortisol levels and improve mood, perfect for recharging their mental batteries.
Builds independence and self-confidence
Phones and tablets offer instant gratification or quick answers at the tap of a screen. While convenient, this can limit children’s problem-solving skills and opportunities for independent thinking. When kids step away from screens, they often explore other interests and learn to entertain themselves.
Whether it’s trying a new recipe, building a den, or learning how to paddle a canoe, screen-free activities help them develop life skills and take on new challenges. Every time they succeed at something offline, it builds confidence and shows them they’re capable of more than they think.
Enhances social skills
Face-to-face interaction is key to developing communication and empathy. Despite digital devices offering more virtual ways to connect through platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, they often lack the depth of real-life conversations.
Time away from devices encourages kids to talk, listen, read body language, and collaborate with others, either during family board games, team sports, or hanging out at a kids’ summer camp. These social experiences help them build stronger relationships, navigate tricky emotions, and develop friendships that don’t depend on Wi-Fi.
Boosts creativity
Without screens to fill every spare moment, kids have more room to think, imagine and create. Screen-free time encourages open-ended play with limitless possibilities and creative problem-solving.
They might write a story, build a fort, or make something from cardboard boxes, building blocks, or paint—just for fun. Creativity also helps kids express their emotions, explore ideas, and develop critical thinking skills that go far beyond childhood.
Reconnect with nature
Nature is one of the best antidotes to screen overload. From climbing trees, spotting wildlife, building dens, or feeling the grass beneath their feet, time outside helps kids slow down and tune into the great outdoors.
Fresh air, natural light, and active movement support both physical and mental health, improving focus and mood and encouraging better sleep. Plus, exploring the woods or collecting shells on the beach helps nurture a sense of adventure, curiosity, and care for the environment.
6 screen-free activities for kids in summer
Here are six engaging screen-free summer activities—perfect for both indoors and outdoors. Each is designed to entertain, educate, and encourage kids to unplug, get active, and have fun while learning something new along the way!
1. Build a den outdoors
Building a den is a fantastic way to get kids outside and spark their imagination. It encourages teamwork as they figure out how to construct a safe, cosy space using simple materials, much like a mini bushcraft adventure. This activity also helps develop problem-solving skills and physical coordination. Plus, once the den is built, it becomes the perfect little hideaway for reading, playing, or just enjoying some quiet time away from screens.
What You’ll Need:
- Blankets or tarpaulin
- Rope or string
- Pegs, sticks, or garden chairs
- Cushions or a picnic rug
How to Do It:
- Choose a sheltered spot (between trees, or in the garden).
- Use a rope to create a frame.
- Hang blankets or tarpaulin for the walls and the roof.
- Secure with pegs or weigh down with stones.
- Add cushions inside and enjoy!
2. Cook or bake together
Cooking or baking with kids is more than just making food; it’s a chance to teach practical life skills like measuring ingredients and following instructions. Kids feel proud when they create something delicious, and it’s also a great way to spend quality time together, chat about the day, and introduce new tastes in a fun, hands-on way!
What You’ll Need (for a chocolate chip cookie recipe – may contain common allergens such as Dairy, Eggs, and Gluten):
- 125g unsalted butter (softened)
- 100g caster sugar
- 100g brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 225g plain flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 150g chocolate chips
How to Do It:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and both sugars until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring until combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking tray, spacing them apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden but still soft in the middle.
- Let cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
3. Conduct an at-home science experiment
At-home science experiments bring learning to life by turning curiosity into discovery. Whether it’s making a fizzy volcano, growing crystals, or exploring magnets, these activities encourage kids to ask questions, make predictions, and observe outcomes. Science builds critical thinking and a love for STEM subjects, all while being playful and engaging.
What You’ll Need (for a volcano experiment):
- 2 tbsp baking soda
- 100ml vinegar
- Washing-up liquid
- Food colouring
- Small container or cup
- A tray or plate to catch spills
How to Do It:
- Place the container on a tray.
- Add 2 tbsp baking soda, a squirt of washing-up liquid, and a few drops of food colouring.
- Slowly pour in the vinegar.
- Watch the fizzing “volcano” erupt.
- Talk about how the acid (vinegar) reacts with the base (baking soda) to create carbon dioxide gas.
4. Organise a family game night
Everyone loves a games night! It’s a fantastic way to bring the whole family together for some screen-free fun, laughter, and a bit of friendly competition. The best part is that there are hundreds of puzzles and board games to choose from, so there’s something for every age and interest. Whether you’re solving a puzzle, racing to finish, or teaming up for a cooperative challenge, it strengthens relationships and helps the whole family unwind.
What You’ll Need:
- A selection of board or card games
- Snacks and drinks
- A clear table or cosy space
How to Do It:
- Choose age-appropriate games that everyone enjoys (e.g Connect Four or Mario Kart).
- Set up a game area with comfy seating.
- Take turns picking the game each week.
- Keep score (or not!)
- Celebrate the winner with a small prize–a chocolate bar or toy trophy!
5. Get creative with arts and crafts
Arts and crafts are activities that allow kids to unleash their inner artist! It’s all about self-expression and using your imagination to create something using only paints, pencils, scissors, glue, or even natural materials like sticks and leaves. Crafting can also be a calming activity that lets kids slow down and focus. Moreover, it’s rewarding to see their creations come to life!
What You’ll Need (for a nature collage)
- Paper or cardboard (for the base)
- Glue or PVA
- Leaves, twigs, petals, grass—anything collected from outside
- Scissors (optional)
- Felt tips or crayons (optional, for decorating)
How to Do It:
- Head outside for a nature walk in the park or woodland, and collect a mix of interesting items (leaves, flowers, small twigs, etc.).
- Lay everything out and decide on a design. This could be random, a pattern, or a picture (like a tree or butterfly).
- Use glue to stick the items onto the paper or cardboard.
- Add drawings or colour around the collage to bring it to life.
- Leave it to dry, then hang it up to display!
6. Book a kids’ summer camp
A kids’ summer camp is the perfect way to combine adventure, challenge, and social time without screens. Summer adventure camps offer a wide variety of activities like hiking, kayaking, abseiling, and team sports like aeroball—all designed to build confidence, independence, and new friendships. Being in a natural setting away from devices helps children recharge and develop new skills, making the most of your summer holiday!
What You’ll Need:
- A booking with a trusted kids’ holiday camp like PGL
- Comfortable clothes and essentials (check our suggested kit list)
- A positive, open, and adventurous mindset!
How to Do It:
- Research your nearest adventure activity camp.
- Involve your child in choosing the right kids camp for them – remember we have 1-night kids camps available all the way up to 7-night kids camps.
- Book in advance and get those bags packed in good time.
- Drop them off at their kids’ camp with loads of encouragement.
- Enjoy the stories they’ll tell when they return!
Bonus tips to reduce screen time at home
We hope this list of screen-free activities has sparked some fresh inspiration for fun-filled days with the kids! If you’re looking for even more ways to cut down screen time at home, take a look at our simple, practical tips below.
- Create screen‑free zones & hours: Designate areas like the dining room or garden where devices are off‑limits.
- Use visual timers: Set a countdown timer when devices are allowed. When time’s up, log off and do something else together.
- Offer choices, not orders: Ask “Would you like to do painting or go for a walk?” instead of “Turn off your screen.” This gives control and buy‑in.
- Eye breaks: Follow the “20‑20‑20” rule. Every 20 minutes, look 20 metres away for 20 seconds to rest your eyes.
- Bedtime buffer: Screens off at least one hour before bed to support restful sleep. It also helps reduce blue light exposure.
- Lead by example: It’s our responsibility to teach kids the importance of healthy screen habits. Put your phone away, go for a walk or read for fun.
Have a screen-free summer at our kids’ adventure holiday camp!
If you’re looking for the ultimate way to weave a screen-free summer into your child’s holiday, our outdoor kids’ camps are the perfect blend of classic PGL multi-activities and hands-on learning in an area you love most. Here’s why it’s great:
- A daily programme of exciting outdoor activities
- Three tasty and nutritious meals per day with plenty of hot and cold options to suit all tastes
- Fun evening activities such as camp fires, discos and arts and crafts
- Sleepovers with new friends in comfy bedrooms
- 24/7 care and support from our expertly trained team
Whether you’re looking for a short 1–3 night getaway or a full 4–7 night adventure, we’ve got options to suit every schedule. Not sure about the full week just yet? Try one of our 3-night Specialist Camps — the perfect way to dip your toes into the action, starting from just £399!
Get in touch with a friendly member of our team today for more information.
