In today’s tech-savvy world, the allure of devices with that iconic lowercase “i” is undeniable. However, the behaviors that often accompany their use can be concerning. I find myself checking messages incessantly, occasionally tuning out my children while I type, and facing persistent requests from them about when they can use their devices. The constant demands for new app downloads and the loud chatter that accompanies gameplay can become overwhelming. The inevitable negotiations over screen time add to the frustration.
Recently, my partner and I made a rather unconventional decision: we chose to leave our children’s iPads at home during our vacation to Mexico. To be honest, we couldn’t part with our own devices, given our busy schedules. This trip involved a flight with a layover, customs, and a taxi ride—all without the usual distractions. It seemed like a recipe for chaos.
To our surprise, when we informed our children about the absence of iPads, they didn’t revolt. Instead, they began suggesting alternative activities for entertainment. Our social experiment turned out to be quite successful. The kids engaged in hangman, journal writing, coloring, and reading, while relishing their time at the pool and beach. They even learned new card games and played imaginative games together.
Although they occasionally expressed a desire for their devices, the overall experience was positive. This experiment prompted me to reflect on our own childhoods, when technology was not as pervasive. What did we do without the distractions of video games, social media, and instant messaging? Did we constantly complain of boredom, as our children do in the absence of screens?
Growing up in the ’80s, we certainly had our own forms of entertainment, including Nintendo and handheld games. Yet, we also found joy in simpler activities. I asked friends on social media to share their childhood pastimes before the age of tablets. The responses were heartwarming and nostalgic.
Bike riding emerged as the most cherished activity. We had the freedom to explore our neighborhoods independently, reminiscent of classic movie scenes where children embark on adventures. Another popular pastime was choreographing dance routines, a beloved activity among young girls.
Here are some activities we engaged in before the advent of iDevices:
- Unsupervised exploration of our neighborhoods.
- Creative play, like making “food” from dirt and leaves.
- Collecting various bugs from gardens.
- Playing simple card games for hours.
- Role-playing games like Cops and Robbers.
- Building blanket forts for imaginative play.
- Playing street games such as baseball and kickball.
- Creating mixed tapes with our favorite songs.
- Practicing gymnastics in our backyards.
- Engaging in doorbell ditching for fun.
- Selling lemonade and other items door-to-door.
- Enjoying water play with sprinklers.
- Climbing trees and exploring nature.
These experiences shaped our childhoods, allowing us to develop independence and creativity. I wish my children could relish similar freedoms and engage their imaginations more fully. As the first generation growing up with social media, they will undoubtedly have their own unique memories to share.
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Summary
In a world dominated by technology, a family vacation without iPads prompted introspection about childhood pastimes. The simplicity of bike riding, imaginative play, and outdoor activities provided valuable insights into how children can thrive without screens. As parents, it’s essential to encourage creativity and exploration in our children’s lives.