Fall is finally here! The back-to-school season brings a welcome fresh energy as families enjoy the cooler weather and seasonal fun. However, with that same excitement comes new transitions, changes in routine, and let's face it, a LOT of adjustments. If you prefer to lean on screens to give yourself a small break (hello, Bluey and YouTube videos!), we totally support you. But if you're looking for ways to limit screen time for the kids this fall? We've got you there, too.
We've broken down our favorite fall ways to limit screen time by activities you can do at home and activities to get out of the house (commonly found in most areas!) These ideas are fun, encourage imagination, and are sure to get you in the seasonal spirit (where are our PSL girlies at?!) Of course, if you need a little time for your own fall fun, you can always book a sitter to lead some of these activities with the kids.
Creative ways to limit screen time for kids this fall
At-home activities
1. Pumpkin Decorating Extravaganza
Pumpkins aren’t just for carving! Gather the family for a creative pumpkin decorating session. Instead of using knives, opt for paint, markers, stickers, and other craft supplies to make this classic fall activity come alive for the younger kids in the family. Assign 'jobs' for each kiddo—like scooping the seeds and even laying them on a baking sheet to roast. Then, break out the craft supplies and let the kids go wild as they transform pumpkins into silly faces, intricate patterns, or wherever their imagination takes them. If you're looking to save on pumpkins, this is a perfect opportunity to pick up a handful of mini pumpkins in lieu of larger, more expensive ones. This activity is not only safe, but also encourages artistic expression and imaginative play. Plus, it’s a great way to add some festive decor to your home!
2. Autumn Sensory Bins
Create a sensory bin filled with fall-themed items to engage your child’s senses and spark their curiosity. Use materials like dried corn, small pumpkins, acorns, and colorful leaves. Sensory bins are ideal for encouraging exploration and play without screens. Kids can dig, pour, and examine the items, which helps develop fine motor skills and sensory awareness. Add small tools like scoops or spoons for extra fun. These bins are known to keep toddlers engaged in independent play for up to an hour, depending on the kiddo.
3. Fall-Themed Baking
Turn your kitchen into a fall baking haven with seasonal recipes. Make treats like pumpkin muffins, apple pie, or cinnamon sugar cookies. Involve the kids in every step, from measuring ingredients to mixing and decorating. Baking not only provides a delicious reward at the end, but also offers opportunities for learning, teamwork, sensory stimulation, and experimentation. Plus, the warm aromas of fall baking will fill your home with that cozy atmosphere you've been craving.
5. Crafty Fall Decorations
Get crafty with some DIY fall decorations. There are so many options that are simple, beautiful, and perfect for toddlers and older kids alike. Create leaf garlands, paint pinecones, or design autumn-themed wreaths using materials like construction paper, glue, and natural items. You can also involve your kids in making homemade cards or decorations for upcoming holidays. Crafting together is a great way to limit screen time, and it also fosters creativity and provides a sense of accomplishment as you decorate your home for the season.
Out-of-the-house activities
6. Visit a Pumpkin Patch
It wouldn't be a fall activity list without pumpkin patches! This is a quintessential fall experience for the whole family. Besides, who needs screens when you're experiencing this once-a-year moment?! Head to a local pumpkin patch with the family and let the kids pick out their favorite pumpkins. (Pro tip: consider snagging some mini pumpkins for the pumpkin decorating activity above!) Many pumpkin patches also offer additional activities such as corn mazes, hayrides, and petting zoos, making it a full day of outdoor fun. This is a great way to enjoy the fall weather and get into the seasonal spirit, plus you’ll have pumpkins to carve or decorate at home.
7. Explore a Nature Trail
Take advantage of the beautiful fall foliage by exploring a nature trail or hiking path. The cooler temperatures and colorful leaves make fall an ideal time for a family hike. Choose a trail that suits your family’s fitness level and enjoy a walk in the woods. Bring along a nature scavenger hunt list to make the hike more engaging—look for different types of leaves, wildlife, or unique natural features along the way.
8. Have a Fall Picnic
Pack a picnic basket with seasonal treats like apple slices, pumpkin muffins, and hot cider, or even some of the fall treats you've already baked, and head to a nearby park or nature area. This is a simple, delightful way to get out of the house, connect with nature, and enjoy some delicious screen-free time with the family. Bring a blanket, some outdoor games, and take time to relax and enjoy each other’s company in the great outdoors.
9. Go Apple Picking
Visit an apple orchard for a fun and interactive outing. Apple picking is not only a great way to spend time outside but also provides an opportunity to learn about different apple varieties and how they grow. After picking your apples, you can use them for baking at home or simply enjoy them fresh. Many orchards also offer additional activities such as cider tasting or hayrides, making it a fun and educational experience.
10. Visit a Local Farm
Taking your toddler or older kids to a local farm is sure to be a fun and educational experience. Many farms offer fall activities like petting zoos, pumpkin patches, and simple hayrides that are perfect for young children. Toddlers will enjoy interacting with friendly farm animals, exploring the pumpkin patch, and putting faces to names of animals they've seen in books and movies. This is a perfect hands-on learning experience that they'll be talking about for days to come. Use this handy tool to find farms that have a u-pick experience near you.
BONUS:
Play in a Leaf Pile!
OK, OK, we couldn't NOT include this one. The simplest fall activity is also one of the most fun. Gathering and jumping in a leaf pile is a classic fall activity that toddlers and even older will love. Rake up a big pile of fallen leaves in your backyard or at a local park and let your child dive in and play. They can toss leaves in the air, make leaf angels, or simply enjoy the crunching sounds as they explore. This hands-on activity is a great way for toddlers to engage with nature and burn off some energy. Don't live in a place with fall foliage? Create a dupe that will light up the kids faces by surprising them with some affordable, artificial leaves in a pile in the yard.
Try these ways to limit screen time and enjoy hours of fun with the kids
As you make your plan to take in the beautiful fall season with the family, we hope these ideas have inspired you with ways to limit screen time, but also, to help your kids’ creativity flourish, and in many cases, enjoy some creative expression of your own.
Of course, if you find yourself in need of back-to-school child care, after school care, or a sitter for a date night you can book a local, 5-star sitter to set up these fun activities for the kids. You can get $20 off your first sitter on SitterTree at the link below.