HOW DO I GET MY CHILD MORE ACTIVE
wITHOUT SCREENS?
If you're a parent, you've probably asked this more than once - maybe even today. With screens everywhere, it’s easier than ever for children to slip into sedentary habits. But encouraging active, screen-free play is one of the best things you can do for their physical and mental development.
Whether you’re looking for at-home ideas or indoor places to go in Cardiff, here’s a practical guide packed with answers to help get your child moving - and loving it.
What Are the Risks of Too Much Screen Time for Children?
Screens can be a great tool for learning and entertainment in moderation - but too much time on them can cause problems like:
- Reduced physical activity and increased risk of weight gain
- Shortened attention spans and sleep disruptions
- Lower motivation to engage in social play or outdoor activity
- Less development of motor skills during key growth stages
Encouraging active alternatives helps children learn to balance their downtime in a healthier way.
Why Is Physical Play So Important for Kids?
Physical activity isn’t just about burning energy (though that’s a bonus!) - it plays a vital role in your child’s development:
- Builds strength, balance, and coordination
- Supports emotional regulation and mental health
- Improves sleep quality
- Boosts confidence and resilience
- Helps kids learn problem-solving and social interaction skills through play
The earlier they get used to moving, the more likely they are to build lifelong healthy habits.
What Are Some Screen-Free Activities I Can Do at Home?
You don’t always need fancy equipment or a big garden - here are some easy, engaging ways to get kids active indoors:
- Build an indoor obstacle course with cushions and furniture
- Set up a dance party with their favourite music
- Have a timed scavenger hunt around the house
- Play classic games like Simon Says or musical statues
- Let them create a fort or roleplay adventure using cardboard boxes and imagination
These activities are brilliant for younger children - but sometimes, they need a space to really let loose.
Where Can I Take My Child in Cardiff to Be Active Indoors?
If you’re looking for things to do with your child in Cardiff that don’t involve screens, there are plenty of indoor options - perfect for wet weather or high-energy weekends.
Some local favourites include:
- Indoor soft play centres
- Trampoline parks
- Leisure centres with swimming or play gyms
- Indoor climbing facilities
One of the most popular options right now? Fun HQ Cardiff - located in Cardiff Bay - offering:
- A multi-level soft play zone for toddlers and young children
- A fully supervised Clip ‘n Climb area for adventurous climbers aged 4+
- A comfortable café for parents to relax while the kids play
- Pre-bookable sessions, birthday party packages, and weekday toddler times
Whether you're popping in for a quick play or planning a screen-free day out, Fun HQ ticks all the boxes.
Is Indoor Play Still Good Exercise for Kids?
Absolutely. Indoor play environments are designed to encourage full-body movement in a safe, structured way. In fact, kids often get more physical activity at a well-designed indoor play centre than they do at home or in the park.
Activities like:
- Crawling through tunnels
- Climbing padded structures
- Sliding, bouncing, and balancing
- Vertical climbing (in Clip ‘n Climb zones)
...all help to develop strength, flexibility, and stamina - and they’re fun enough that kids don’t even realise they’re exercising!