10 Screen-Free Ways to Celebrate Worldwide Day of Play

Get up, get out and go play on the Worldwide Day of Play and beyond with these fun ideas.

As easy as it is to keep your kids occupied with the TV or tablet, you now have a reason to take a small technology break. Nickelodeon is hosting its 15th annual Worldwide Day of Play on Saturday, Sept. 29. The event encourages children and parents to turn off their screens and play—especially outdoors! Keep your family entertained all day long with these fun screen-free activities.

 

Take a trip downtown.

 

There’s nothing more exciting than exploring the city as if you’re a tourist. Revisit some classic attractions like Millennium Park and Navy Pier. Who knows, you and the family might learn something new about Chicago!

 

Play a board game.

 

Take out your favorite board games that are collecting dust in the closet for some good, old-fashioned family fun. Your kids will love to learn about the classic games that you played at their age like Jenga, Battleship and more.

 

See art.

 

You can murals anywhere in the city! Indulge in the arts for free and take a quick snap for Instagram with these kid-friendly murals.

 

Go to a street fest.

 

Take everyone out of the house by finding a local outdoor event near you. Eat food and celebrate fall, all while exploring a new neighborhood and spending the entire day under the sun.

 

Visit a museum.

 

Give your eyes a rest from the screens and spend a day of learning at your favorite local museum. Shedd Aquarium is offering free admission on Sept. 29.

 

Go on a nature walk.

 

If it’s a beautiful day out, you don’t want to waste it indoors. Explore the wilderness as a family by going on a hike or riding some wheels. Don’t forget to bring some snacks along too!

 

Make a craft.

 

Set some time aside to organize some exciting craft activities. We’ve got lots of great craft ideas for you!

 

Cook together.

 

A good meal always makes any family happy. Why not try a meal or treat you can all cook together? Try out baking these delicious fall desserts and roasting pumpkin seeds.

 

Build a fort.

 

If all else fails, the power of imagination will help break away from the iPad. Gather up your blankets and pillows to make the best fort your house has ever seen. Your kids will love it!

 

Enjoy fall.

 

Make the most of the season by trying some fun fall family activities such as tailgating at a football game and hosting a bonfire.

 

Katina Beniaris
Katina Beniaris
As audience development manager, Katina Beniaris digs into data to help the Chicago Parent team learn about our audiences and tailor better content for them. She has more than five years of experience in content creation.
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