If you’ve ever found yourself thinking…
“My child won’t play with toys anymore - they only want screens.”
Parents everywhere are asking the same question in parenting forums, Facebook groups, and late-night Google searches:
How do I encourage screen-free play that actually lasts?
At Toybox Tales, we hear this all the time - and honestly?
Even though we run a toy store filled with incredible toys, we still understand how real screen-time battles can be.
The good news is: screen-free play can come back.
Not through pressure. Not through perfection. But through small, simple shifts that make play feel easy again.
Why Screen-Free Play Matters So Much
Screen-free play isn’t just about “less screen time.”
It’s where children build essential life skills, including:
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Focus and attention
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Creativity and imagination
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Problem-solving
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Confidence and independence
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Communication and social development
Play is how children process their world. It’s how childhood grows.
The Real Secret: Make Play Easy to Start
One of the biggest reasons screens win is because they’re instant.
Toys and imaginative play often take a little longer to begin - and kids need support in that “starting” moment.
So instead of aiming for hours of independent play right away, focus on creating small invitations back into play.
5 Tips for Screen-Free Play That Actually Sticks
1. Start With Just 10 Minutes
Screen-free play doesn’t have to be an all-day activity.
Start small.
Even 10 minutes of focused play is a win - and often, once kids begin, they keep going.
2. Reduce Toy Overwhelm
Sometimes the issue isn’t boredom… it’s too many choices.
If every toy is out at once, play can feel overwhelming.
Try putting out just 2–3 options and rotating the rest.
3. Stay Nearby (Connection Helps Play Last Longer)
You don’t need to entertain or lead the play.
Just being close - folding laundry nearby, sitting with a cup of tea - can help children feel secure enough to play independently.
Connection is often the bridge back into play.
4. Use a Simple Prompt Instead of “Go Play”
“Go play with your toys” can feel like a big task.
Instead, try a gentle invitation like:
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“Want to show me what this truck can carry today?”
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“Should we build a home for these animals?”
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“What do you think happens next in this story?”
Small prompts create big play.
This works beautifully with open-ended toys like:
➡️ Role Play and Dress Up Toys
➡️ Figurines
5. Screen-Free Play Comes Easier Before Screens
Many parents notice that once screens happen, it’s harder to return to imaginative play.
If possible, try a simple rhythm:
Play first → screens later
Even a short screen-free start to the day can make a big difference.
Choosing Toys That Get Played With (Not Just Stored Away)
If your child has plenty of toys already, you don’t need more.
But it can help to focus on toys that invite repeat play, such as:
A Gentle Reminder for Parents
Screen-free play doesn’t need to be perfect.
It doesn’t need to look like a Pinterest playroom.
It just needs a starting point.
One small moment.
One invitation.
One story.
And over time, it sticks.
Looking for More Screen-Free Play Ideas?
At Toybox Tales, we’re passionate about helping families find toys and play ideas that support childhood away from screens.
Explore our range here:
➡️ Toybox Tales
Or follow us on Instagram (@ToyboxTalesAU) for play tips, toy favourites, and real-life parenting support.