From Couch to Playground: Simple Tips for Getting Kids Moving Again After Screen Time

For kids today, screens are everywhere. Whether it’s schoolwork on a tablet, an episode of their favorite show, or a weekend video game session, kids are logging a lot of screen time these days. And while a little downtime is totally okay (and sometimes a lifesaver for parents), it can be tough getting kids re-energized and off the couch when screen time is over.

The good news? With the right approach and a few fun tools, it’s possible to make the transition from passive time to active play smooth, exciting, and even something kids look forward to.

Here are some simple, realistic tips for helping your kids shift from screens to movement, with a little help from Bolder Play.

1. Set the Stage with a “Movement Cue”

Kids thrive on structure, and having a clear “what’s next” after screen time helps shift their focus without a battle. Try using a movement cue, something physical or sensory that signals it’s time to move.

Here are a few ideas:

• A favorite song (instant dance party!)
  

• A timer that rings, followed by a silly movement challenge
  

• A change in lighting or environment (e.g., dimming the TV lights and turning on brighter lights near their play zone)
  
  

Pair this with a visual chart if you want, or simply keep it consistent so kids begin to expect it.

2. Start Small with Low-Pressure Play

After sitting still, launching straight into a high-energy activity can be overwhelming, especially if your child is deeply immersed in screen mode. Instead, ease into movement with fun, low-pressure activities!

Try this with your kids: Set out Balance Stepping Stones and challenge your child to cross the room without touching the floor. It’s just enough to get their body moving and start engaging those balance and coordination muscles!

3. Offer Options (and Let Them Lead)

Give kids a sense of control by letting them choose their activity, but keep it exciting! Lay out 2–3 engaging choices:

• “Want to race on the Tri-Flyer or build an obstacle course?”
  

• “Do you want to climb today or slide?”
  

• “How many laps can you do across the stepping stones without falling?”
  
  

Giving them a voice helps them feel in charge and more motivated to participate. And let’s face it, when the options involve zipping, climbing, or jumping, it's hard to say no.

4. Make Active Play Feel Like a Game

Reframing physical activity as play (not “exercise”) is key. That’s why gear like the Slackers Ninjaline is so powerful. It naturally challenges kids to move, test their skills, and most importantly, have fun.

Try turning your backyard or indoor space into a “ninja challenge course” where kids earn points for different tasks. Add a leaderboard or challenge cards to switch things up!

5. Keep It Social (When Possible)

Sometimes, kids just need a little encouragement from someone their own age. Invite a neighbor or sibling to join the action, or better yet, make it a family affair! Kids love it when adults jump in, too. 

6. Use Positive Reinforcement

When kids successfully shift from screen time to active play, celebrate it! A simple “You crushed that obstacle course!” or “I love how you got up and moved your body!” reinforces the behavior and makes it more likely to happen again.

And if they struggle one day? That’s okay too. Sometimes the best move is just to get up and try again tomorrow. Progress over perfection!

Help Kids Bounce Back from Screen Time with Play That Moves Them

Screen time isn’t the enemy; it's a part of modern life. But giving your kids the tools to transition out of passive time and into active, creative play is one of the best gifts you can give.

With fun, movement-focused gear like the Slackers Ninjaline, Tri-Flyer, and Balance Stepping Stones, you’re not just getting kids moving again; you’re helping them rediscover the joy of imaginative, unstructured play.

Because at the end of the day, the goal isn’t just less screen time. It’s more joy, more movement, and more connection, one play session at a time!