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The Best Toddler Crafts for More Screen-Free Play

Toddler
February 22, 2025•3 min read

The Best Toddler Crafts for More Screen-Free Play

I recently came across an Instagram post that recommended toddlers have no more than 30 minutes of screen time per day. I think of this daily now—only 30 minutes? Like many parents, I rely on screen time to some extent, but I know I can do better at limiting it. This led me to dig deeper into the effects of screen time on toddlers.

How Much Screen Time is Too Much?

According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), here are the recommended screen time guidelines for young children:

  • Under 18 months: Avoid screen time, except for video chatting with an adult.

  • 18-24 months: If introducing screens, limit it to high-quality educational content watched with a caregiver.

  • Ages 2-5: Limit non-educational screen time to 1 hour on weekdays and 3 hours on weekends (AACAP, n.d.).

While a small amount of screen time seems harmless, experts agree that excessive screen time can negatively impact toddlers’ cognitive, physical, and emotional development.

Signs of Too Much Screen Time

I also wanted to understand how too much screen exposure might affect my toddler. According to SoCal Mental Wellness, signs of excessive screen time include:

  • Behavioral Issues – More tantrums, irritability, aggression, and difficulty transitioning away from screens.

  • Sleep Disturbances – Poor sleep and a “tired but wired” effect, making it hard for kids to wind down.

  • Hindered Imagination – Less motivation for creative play and independent thinking.

  • Overstimulation – Difficulty sitting still, controlling impulses, and an increase in hyperactivity.

These signs highlight why balancing screen time is so important for our little ones.

You can read more on SoCal Mental Wellness here.

Screen Time Guilt? Let’s Be Real.

If reading these guidelines makes you feel guilty, please don’t! Parenting today is hard, especially with screens everywhere and limited support. Some days, screen time is a lifesaver, and that’s okay. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Even small changes, like cutting back 30 minutes a day can make a difference!

How to Reduce Screen Time? Try Crafts!

I know firsthand how hard it can be to replace screen time with engaging activities—especially when you just need a moment to get something done or to just breathe. For the past few months as I’ve been trying to lower my toddler’s screen-time, I have found crafts to be a go-to! 

Beyond just keeping little hands busy, crafting helps toddlers develop:

  • Creativity & Imagination

  • Self-Expression

  • Confidence & Independence

  • Fine Motor Skills

  • Problem-Solving

  • Hand-Eye Coordination

  • Social Skills

  • Critical Thinking

(Children’s Museum of Sonoma County, n.d.)

Our Favorite Toddler Craft Supplies

Here are our most used craft supplies that my toddler loves that have helped cut back on screen time in our home!

→ See all my favorite toddler screen-free play favorites here.

toddler screen free play crafts

More Screen-Free Play Ideas? Let’s Connect!

Want more screen-free toddler activity ideas or other ways to help nurture your toddler's health? For more ideas and support, you can follow me on:

References:

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