10 Screen-Free Activities Kids Ages 4 to 8 Actually Love

Let’s be honest. Some days the tablet is calling louder than a puppy at dinnertime. Over the years of visiting classrooms, libraries and book festivals with Bentley and the Crew, I’ve collected a big bag of screen-free ideas that kids genuinely love (and that don’t require a trip to the craft store).

1. Hidden object hunts

Grab a picture book and challenge your kiddo to find something on every page. Every Bentley book hides 60 items, plus a sneaky African violet and a cardinal, so it turns story time into a treasure hunt.

2. Read it, then draw it

After reading, ask, “What happened next?” and let them draw a brand new ending.

3. Mazes and puzzles

Mazes build patience, pencil control and problem solving. Start easy and celebrate every finish line.

4. Kitchen helpers

Measuring, pouring and stirring are secret math lessons. Our Bentley Bakes dump cake activity is a great place to start.

5. Tracing and letter games

Trace numbers, names and favorite words. Make it silly with a different color for every letter.

6. I Spy coloring pages

Kids color the picture AND hunt for hidden friends. Two activities in one!

7. Sock puppet shows

Mismatched socks make the best characters. Bonus points for funny voices.

8. Pattern parades

Line up toys, snacks or stickers in patterns (red, blue, red, blue) and ask what comes next.

9. Story walks

Take a walk and make up a story about everything you see. That squirrel? Definitely on a secret mission.

10. Printable activity packs

When you need something ready in two minutes, print and go. Each of our Bentley printable activity packs has 17 pages of word searches, mazes, tracing, counting and hunts tied to a Bentley book.

Grab a free sampler!

Want to try before you buy? Join Bentley’s Dogtourage (it’s free!) and you’ll get a free Bentley Activity Sampler plus our VIP coloring book. Happy playing!