SCREEN-FREE TRAVEL ENTERTAINMENT

Here are some great, lightweight, screen free options for entertaining your kids while travelling.

Deck of cards: a regular set gives you endless options of games, but our family prefers the drama of card games like UNO or SKIPBO. They also come in handy when you’re taking a break from the sun or on rainy days.

Travel games: Magnetic travel games are a classic way to entertain your kids while travelling. For the younger ones, a Checkers and X’s & O’s set is a great option. Once they are in elementary school and have started reading, “Hang Man” is a fun way for them to practice their spelling skills. (Hangman Take ‘N Play Magnetic game) These travel games are also a great way to keep kids entertained while waiting for meals at restaurants.

Busy Bags: Fill paper lunch bags or recycled gift bags with items from the dollar store. Depending on the age of your kids they could contain stickers, colouring books, small toys, snacks or even small crafts.

Magazines: Much lighter than books, National Geographic Kids, Highlights and Chirp are great choices. When they are done reading them and have completed the activities, they can also be used for a game of “Eye Spy”!

Hackey Sack: Great while waiting in airports. Play a game of catch with your toddler. Or go old school and teach your kids how to play Hackey Sack, impressing them with your loops, stalls and milk tosses.

Eye Spy Bottle: Thanks to Pinterest, there are lots of examples of a “Make your own Eye Spy Bottle. Find a clear, clean plastic bottle with a lid that can be secured tightly. Fill the bottle with rice and items from around the house or dollar store; coins, small toy animals, small lego brick or character, large beads, buttons any other small colourful objects. Make a checklist of the items and have your child mark them off as they find them.

Colour their own backpack: This will keep them entertained and they can use their masterpiece on day trips or as a beach bag. (Doodle backpack)

What's your favourite screen-free way to keep your kids entertained while travelling?

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