In today’s whirlwind of technology and endless screens, parenting feels more complex—and challenging—than ever. Our children are growing up in a world that the creators of these devices never experienced themselves. What was it that allowed those innovators to think so freely and creatively? The answer lies not in the devices, but in the open spaces and unstructured playtime of childhood—precious elements that are slipping away from many kids today.
The Lost Art of Play and Imagination
Children’s play isn’t just fun—it’s their vital work, the foundation of their creativity and development. Yet, in our rush to prepare children for the future, we cram their schedules with educational apps, enrichment classes, organized sports, and structured activities, often replacing spontaneous play with screen time.
Teachers report that many children have lost the ability to imagine without screen-based prompts. When asked to create original stories or projects unrelated to movies, video games, or TV shows, kids often find themselves utterly stuck. This creative drought is more than concerning—it’s heartbreaking.
Remember, the pioneers of digital technology did not grow up surrounded by screens. Their inventive minds thrived in boredom, play, and the freedom to explore their imaginations. This is the very environment our children desperately need.
You Already Hold the Wisdom
You don’t need to be an expert to recognize what’s best for your child in this digital age. It starts with close observation. Notice where technology use clashes with your child’s natural development—whether it’s poor posture, reduced eye contact, anxiety, or a craving for machines over people.
Screens can distort essential childhood experiences: the ability to self-entertain, to be alone comfortably, to engage in face-to-face social interactions. They can disrupt sleep, fuel anxiety, and foster a preference for virtual “likes” over real connection. If your child shows signs like tantrums when devices are taken away, exhaustion from late-night screen use, or living more in the virtual than the real world, you already have the answer you need.
What Happens When Screens Take a Backseat?
Limiting screen time frees children to discover the invaluable skill of self-entertainment and the ability to turn boredom into creativity. It nurtures kids who can enjoy their own company, engage deeply with family and friends, and develop social skills unhindered by digital distractions.
Parents report fewer struggles over homework or chores, leading to more peaceful homes and deeper connections with their children. Well-rested children are healthier, happier, and perform better academically. These kids tend to make eye contact confidently, embrace conversations, and face social challenges without anxiety.
Most importantly, children raised with less screen interference develop inner resources, unique talents, and the ability to ground themselves in meaningful relationships—qualities that will serve them a lifetime.
Back to the Basics of Childhood
Imagine life before screens—what did adults believe children truly needed to thrive? Love, friendship, safety, nutritious food, sleep, free play, and a gentle pace. Human biology and psychology have not changed, even as technology has.
Screens cannot replace hugs, guidance, or emotional teaching. They do not nourish healthy movement, mitigate loneliness, or spark creativity. They are not a substitute for the presence and connection only parents, caregivers, and real-world friendships can provide.
Reflective Questions to Guide You
- What does it mean when the biggest influence in your child’s life comes from a screen?
- Without technology, what activities would your child naturally choose?
- When have you seen your child experience genuine joy?
- How does valuing “likes” impact your child’s sense of self-worth?
- What hopes did you have for your child’s childhood and the world they would grow up in?
These questions help parents tune into what truly matters and notice what might be missing from their children’s lives.
Practical Steps for Courageous Parenting
- Don’t introduce digital habits you don’t intend to maintain—avoid screens as pacifiers.
- Keep devices out of sight and out of mind, especially during play.
- Create a “childhood bin” filled with creative materials to inspire open-ended play.
- Allow boredom to happen—this is where imagination and self-reliance grow.
- Watch for screen-driven themes in your child’s speech or play; originality is key.
- Prioritize daily outdoor time free from organized activities.
- Reduce screen exposure as much and as often as possible—give kids space to just be kids.
- Before saying yes to screen time or digital activities, ask if it’s truly age-appropriate.
- Fill the void that screens try to occupy with your presence, attention, and love.
- Embrace the imperfect, inconvenient, and sometimes boring moments—they build character.
The Gift of Courageous Choices
Parenting in the age of technology is a call to courage. It means standing firm amid pressure, hype, and societal norms to protect what childhood needs most: freedom, creativity, human connection, and a sense of belonging.
By choosing to slow down, set boundaries, and honor the innate wisdom children carry, parents offer their kids a priceless gift: the chance to grow into thoughtful, resilient, and vibrant individuals who can imagine boldly and live fully—beyond the glow of any screen.
Excerpted and adapted from Susan McNamara’s Remembering What Matters Most: A Call to Courage for Parents Ready to Take a Stand for Childhood in the Age of Technology (2025).
Susan McNamara and her family live close to nature in Western Massachusetts, committed to embracing what truly nurtures human thriving. Her work invites families to reclaim childhood from the grasp of screens and rediscover life’s simple, profound essentials.