How to Find a Screen-Free Activity That Truly Works for Your 10-Year-Old

Why It's So Hard (and So Necessary) to Ditch Screens

If you're parenting a 10-year-old who's struggling with screen overload, you're in good company—and likely exhausted. After a long school day, when your child is drained or overwhelmed, digital escape can seem like the easiest solution. But when you're trying to reduce screen time, especially following a rough afternoon filled with school stress, the question becomes: what actually works to engage a child—no screens allowed?

You're not just looking for a wholesome pastime. You're looking for peace. Connection. Maybe even a moment where things feel a little less impossible. And yes, you’ve tried some things: reading together, walks outside, board games—and somehow, they don’t always land. So how do you find a screen-free activity that not only fills the time, but feels nourishing and doable for both of you?

Start with One Guiding Principle: Follow Their Curiosity, Not Your Agenda

This stage of childhood—somewhere between little kid and pre-teen—is complex. Your 10-year-old likely craves independence while still needing you nearby. They may resist suggestions they feel are too “kid-like,” but aren't entirely self-directed yet either. This is where many parents hit a wall: suggesting what they think their child should want (read a book, go out for a run, start a craft) rather than what actually sparks curiosity.

Instead of offering a menu of suggestions, begin with a question: "What’s something you'd love to do—just for fun—that doesn’t need a screen?" The act of being asked makes kids feel seen. And sometimes, the answers surprise you.

If your child isn't sure, offer ideas that draw on who they are:

• Do they love to move? Try setting up a DIY obstacle course at home using pillows, chairs, and tape.
• Are they into language or storytelling? Invite them to co-create a story with you—each of you taking turns adding a sentence or two.

Do they prefer quiet activities? Introduce an age-appropriate audio series that activates their imagination without using screens. The iOS and Android versions of the LISN Kids App offer a blend of original audiobooks and beautifully narrated stories for children ages 3–12. No visual input, just pure listening magic—it can be a gentle bridge into solo play time or a calm pre-dinner ritual.

No Success? Try a Tactical Reboot

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your child just isn't into anything—especially after a particularly draining school day. Instead of pushing, rethink how you introduce the idea. You don't have to force fun. Instead, get curious yourself: "I noticed you're a bit quiet—do you want to just hang out while I noodle around with these paints / start this puzzle / organize this drawer?"Inviting your child into a low-pressure moment—where nothing is expected of them—can work magic. Kids are often willing to join in once they see you engaged in a calming task. It removes decision fatigue and invites subtle cooperation. This strategy is especially helpful for solo parents or co-parents managing kids on different schedules. For thoughtful guidance, check out this article on supporting your child's stability in co-parenting.

Define "Success" Differently

Let go of the idea that the activity needs to be wildly fun, deeply meaningful, or last until bedtime. Sometimes, just 10 minutes of screen-free presence can reset the tone of your evening. That moment of connection often matters far more than how long it lasted.In fact, if your goal is more about reducing anxiety or decompressing after school, a short burst of laughter or a moment of focus may be enough. Solo parents especially need gentle flexibility to honor their child’s needs while balancing their own emotional bandwidth.

For Kids Who Struggle With Transitions

If your 10-year-old resists moving from one activity to another—even if the end goal is fun—consider creating a buffer ritual. This might be a post-homework snack paired with soft background music, or a five-minute wind-down walk around the block before beginning an activity. These small cues reduce friction around transitions and make it feel safe to step out of habitual screen use.When in doubt, communicate openly: “I know it’s easier to just watch YouTube right now. But I want us to find something that helps your mind rest in a different way. Will you try one idea with me today?”

Let Go of Perfection, Embrace Small Wins

Screen-free doesn’t have to mean perfection. Maybe today it’s a five-minute card game. Tomorrow, it could be building with LEGO in shared silence. And sometimes, kids will say no—or get bored after five minutes. That doesn’t mean you failed. It means you’re trying, which already counts for so much.If you're parenting on your own, these moments of connection can feel even more fragile—but also more powerful. For beautiful reminders of how to make those moments matter, see this reflection on building joyful memories as a solo parent.In a world where it's easier than ever to hand over a screen, choosing presence—again and again—is one of the most loving things you can do. Even when you're tired. Even when they roll their eyes. Even when it's hard. That intention is seen. And it does make a difference.