Traditional Play vs. Digital Play: Why Kids Still Need Offline Fun and Creativity
Mothers whose childhood was in the 80s and early 90s, what comes to mind when you think about your growing years? The outdoor games involved playing with other children in the neighborhood. Oh! What about those interesting and educational games, such as “Ten-Ten” and “Suwe”, in Nigeria, a part of Africa? Also, plays like climbing trees, playing hide-and-seek, or building castles with sand. What about the different sports games, like football or table tennis, where one compound would play against another compound in the neighborhood? And we would produce this beautiful shiny trophy with a “JIK” bottle. The thought of it alone makes me feel happy as I write this article. It was exciting and very educational! Those games and plays made us think analytically, educated us, while also helping us have fun and build relationships.
Now compare that with what many children do today—hours of gaming, watching YouTube, or chatting on social media. Does this form of play really impact all aspects of growing up as mentioned above? Let’s be truthful to ourselves, the answer is “No.”
Though digital play has its place. Educational apps can sharpen math, reading, and problem-solving skills. Video games can even improve hand-eye coordination and quick decision-making (Granic, Lobel, & Engels, 2014). But here’s the catch: too much digital play can mean less time outdoors, fewer opportunities to practice real social skills, gain real-life values, build relationships, and even reduced creativity when everything is already pre-designed (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2016).
On the other hand, traditional play—think building blocks, drawing, pretend cooking, or outdoor games—sparks imagination in ways screens simply cannot. When children role-play with dolls or act out “doctor and patient,” they’re not just having fun, they’re learning empathy, communication, and problem-solving in real-life contexts (Ginsburg, 2007).
So how do we balance both worlds?
● Set Play Zones: Create screen-free times—like mealtimes, bedtime, and family gatherings.
● Mix Play Types: Encourage both digital and offline play. For example, let them use a coding app, but also spend time with puzzles or outdoor games.
● Play Together: Join in their pretend games, draw with them, or kick a ball outside. When kids see us enjoying traditional play, they value it more.
● Encourage Creativity: Offer open-ended toys—Legos, art supplies, or costumes—that allow kids to invent their own worlds.
The Bible reminds us in Ecclesiastes 3:1 that “there is a time for everything.” Children need balance—a time for screens, but also a time to play with one another, imagine, laugh, and create.
The Big Question: If your child had to choose between a video game and playing catch with you, which would they pick—and what does that reveal?
