“Put your phone away.” “Step away from the iPad.” “Turn off the TV.” “Give me the remote…” Indeed, all words (or pleas) parents have uttered more times than they’d prefer to remember. Trying to get kids off their devices and interested in the world around them can often be incredibly challenging. But we all know the benefits of reducing screen time: better sleep, enhanced focus, increased creativity, reduced stress, improved social skills, stronger family bonds; the list goes on.
The question is, once you’ve won the battle of getting your kids off their devices, how do you keep them off? These seven wholesome device-free activities are ways to stimulate, engage and encourage children to seek and appreciate gratification elsewhere. From cooking classes to zip line assault courses, there’s something for everyone. And if it means that kids are happy to go screen-free in lieu of some fun, we’ll take it. Even if it’s for an hour or two!
SPLASH OUT
Few things tempt kids away from tech better than a day splashing around in a pool, but throw in a movie and free popcorn, and you’ve earned yourself some serious brownie points. Head to Mama Shelter’s Skypool and CineMAMA in Business Bay for a day of floaties and fun, followed by an outdoor movie and free popcorn.
ARTIST IN THE MAKING
Kutubna Cultural Center is one of Dubai’s greatest gifts – a beautiful creative space designed to inspire and engage young, curious minds. This month, there are loads of cool kids’ activities such as art workshops with Nora Qudah inspired by Picasso (18 April), Alma Thomas (25 April) and Pacita (27 April), and toddler arts and crafts classes throughout the month.
CRAFTING A CANVAS
Understanding the true power of art, Thejamjar is a community-led Dubai institution. One of the best places to allow children’s creativity to flourish, kids can let their imaginations run riot armed with nothing but a paintbrush, with different weekly workshops such as Artful Toddlers and Kids Acrylics.
WOODWORK WIZARDS
Keep little hands busy and off phones with Wood Wizards – a woodworking programme that introduces children to the world of craftsmanship. An activity that stimulates physical, mental, emotional and social growth, it also provides children with a means to become makers, tinkerers and engineers mastering new skills, using real child-sized tools and building unique pieces from scratch.
A FEAST OF FUN
What if you could find a fabulous activity for kids that fed them at the same time? Sounds like a win-win to us. Mamalu Kitchen does just that, with hands-on cooking classes that teach children how to become mini chefs in their own right, with everything from sushi and cookie classes to bread baking and Easter bonanzas.
SADDLE UP
Unsure what will sway kids away from screen time? Perhaps swimming with horses will do the trick… This truly unique experience is available at JA Equestrian Centre at JA Resorts & Hotels in Jebel Ali, where children can join one of the stable’s friendly horses for a swim in the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf.
SWING INTO SUMMER
Aventura Parks Dubai has to be one of the most thrilling ways to entice kids away from their devices. Spanning 35,000 square metres of Ghaf Tree forest in Mushrif Park, this ropes assault course is perfect for kids who love to explore. Think zip lines, circuit-style obstacles, trampolines, rabbit encounters, playgrounds and more.
