With our kids glued to electronics earlier than ever, we’re watching technology overthrow the wildness of childhood. We’ve unintentionally deprived them of coming-of-age experiences we once knew—exploring the neighborhood, solving problems with our hands, triumphing over boredom. These books are playful, practical, and inspiring tools to help kids unplug, rediscover independence, and build resilience.

5 Books To Help Kids Thrive Beyond Screens

1. The Tech-Wise Family by Andy Crouch

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A modern parenting classic, this book offers ten practical commitments for putting technology in its proper place so kids can develop creativity, character, and deep relationships.

2. Unplug and Play: The Ultimate Illustrated Guide to Roughhousing with Your Kids by Anthony T. DeBenedet and Lawrence J. Cohen

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This engaging guide celebrates the power of physical play, offering 45 illustrated activities—from “Human Cannonball” to “Magic Carpet Ride”—that encourage laughter, connection, resilience, and confidence for kids of all ages, while helping families unplug together.

3. The Things You Have to Do Before I Buy You a Phone by Adam Ferguson

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Because punching your thumbs against screens isn’t life—this playful, practical checklist of 50 adventures, from cooking dinner to navigating without GPS, helps kids earn not just a phone, but grit, independence, and confidence.

4. Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children by Angela J. Hanscom

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Written by a pediatric occupational therapist, this guide shows how unstructured outdoor play builds strong, healthy, resilient kids—physically, emotionally, and socially.

5. Childhood Unplugged: Practical Advice to Get Kids Off Screens and Find Balance by Katherine Johnson Martinko

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This book takes a gentle yet insightful approach to the screen dilemma, offering age-appropriate strategies for babies, toddlers, school-age children, and teens. It emphasizes restoring the magic of childhood by naturally reducing screen time and encouraging creative, active play.

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