AI is transforming childhood. As it becomes more integrated into daily life, the way kids spend their free time is changing too. Traditional hobbies and pastimes are fading as screens, structured activities, and AI-driven tools take center stage. Here’s a look at some of the pastimes at risk in the wondrous AI era and how parents can keep these activities alive.
The decline of imaginative, unstructured play
With structured games and AI-driven apps available anytime, kids are spending less time in unstructured, imaginative play. This kind of play, where children create their own worlds, scenarios, and rules, has always been important for creativity and problem-solving.
Encouraging imaginative play can be simple. Provide open-ended toys, art supplies, or outdoor time and limit screen time to create space for unstructured fun.
The fading art of handwriting and letter writing
With digital communication becoming the norm, handwriting and letter writing are becoming less common. Kids who type more often than they write by hand miss out on the cognitive benefits handwriting brings, from memory improvement to fine motor skills.
Encourage handwriting by providing opportunities for your child to write—whether it’s keeping a journal, sending handwritten letters to family, or practicing creative writing on paper.
Moving away from printed books
E-books, interactive stories, and AI-generated content have made digital reading more common than ever. While digital books are convenient, printed books offer a sensory experience that helps children focus and engage with stories more deeply.
Introduce a mix of printed and digital reading materials, and create a comfortable reading space where kids can enjoy the tactile experience of turning pages.
The decline of board games and puzzles
AI-driven video games and apps are replacing traditional board games and puzzles. Yet these physical games are valuable; they require patience, critical thinking, and social skills when played with others.
Make board games and puzzles part of family routines or group activities. Playing these games together can create bonding moments and help children develop problem-solving skills that go beyond screens.
Less outdoor play and physical activity
AI-driven entertainment can keep kids indoors, reducing the time they spend on outdoor play or physical activities. Physical movement is essential for overall health, supporting both physical and mental well-being.
Encourage regular outdoor time by planning active family outings, setting aside specific times for outdoor play, or involving kids in organized sports. This helps them balance screen time with physical activity.
A shift away from manual skills like drawing, painting, and crafting
With AI-powered art tools, children are spending less time learning hands-on creative skills like drawing, painting, or crafting. These activities help develop fine motor skills and foster creative expression.
Set aside time for traditional art activities. Offer art supplies, set up a crafting station, or try creative projects together as a family. Physical creativity gives kids a hands-on experience that digital tools can’t fully replace.
Face-to-face social games becoming less common
AI-powered online games and virtual social platforms are leading to fewer face-to-face social games like tag, hide-and-seek, or card games. In-person play is important for developing social and emotional skills.
Create regular opportunities for kids to play with friends or family in person. Family game nights or outdoor group games allow kids to practice cooperation, empathy, and communication.
The disappearing skill of map reading
GPS and AI-enabled navigation tools have made traditional map reading almost obsolete. Kids who grow up relying on GPS may miss out on learning spatial awareness and directional skills.
Introduce map-reading activities by using physical maps on family trips or having your child help plan routes. This can help build spatial skills and make them more confident in navigation.
Preserving the balance between AI and traditional pastimes
AI brings incredible tools and resources to childhood, but traditional hobbies are essential for balanced development. By mixing screen-based activities with classic, hands-on pastimes, parents can ensure that their children grow up with a well-rounded set of skills. Embracing AI while preserving traditional play will help children develop the creativity, critical thinking, and social skills they’ll need in a tech-driven world.