5 ways to entertain the little ones without screens this summer in Gran Canaria.
During the school holidays, many families face the same question: How can we keep the kids entertained without resorting to screens? While digital devices can be useful from time to time, summer is the perfect opportunity to encourage real-life experiences—outdoors and in touch with nature. In Gran Canaria, there’s no shortage of options for keeping children happy and active without the need for mobiles or tablets. At La Jaira de Ana, we recommend the Summer Camp, but there’s plenty more on offer. Sign your children up for a summer camp surrounded by nature. The Summer Camp at La Jaira de Ana, located just outside Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is one of the island’s most complete programmes for children of all ages. It combines educational and fun-filled activities designed to develop creativity, empathy, and a love for the natural world. The camp includes: Interaction with farm animals. Organic gardening activities. Creative workshops. Outdoor games. Teamwork and socialising. → Bonus plan: After a week at the camp, why not enjoy a family outing to the Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo or the Caldera de Bandama? Both are ideal for gentle hikes with children and for staying screen-free in beautiful natural surroundings. Rediscover classic playground games. You don’t need tech to have fun. Traditional games are brilliant for getting kids moving, thinking, and bonding with others. Whether at home or in the park, make time for some of these timeless activities: Sack races Capture the flag Hide and seek Tug of war Tag → Extra idea: Many of these games are also featured in school trips and workshops at La Jaira de Ana. For a family-friendly park to play in, Parque Doramas in central Las Palmas is a fantastic option. Create an arts and crafts station at home. This is a creative, relaxing, and budget-friendly activity. Set up an ‘art station’ where kids can let their imaginations run wild using materials such as: Cardboard, paper rolls, bottles. Wool, dried leaves, stones. Poster paint, stickers. → Inspiration: To take things a step further, plan a visit to the Museo Elder de la Ciencia y la Tecnología, which has interactive exhibits designed for children—no personal screens required. Cook together as a family. Cooking is a great way for children to learn, collaborate, and build confidence. Kids love measuring, kneading, decorating, and—of course—tasting their creations! Easy recipes to try: Homemade biscuits. Fruit smoothies. Mini pizzas. Fruit skewers. → Local tip: At La Jaira de Ana’s cheese-making workshops, children get hands-on with local produce straight from the farm. You could follow this up with a visit to the Mercado de Vegueta, where kids can learn to recognise seasonal Canarian fruit and vegetables. Explore educational spaces and hidden gems across the island. Gran Canaria is packed with places that spark curiosity and wonder—no screens necessary. Try some of these: Swim in the natural pools of Agaete. Wander through the old town of Teror and sample the local sweets. Join a craft workshop in Artenara. Spend the day at La Jaira de Ana, enjoying their weekend activities or family events. These experiences help nurture respect for nature, cultural awareness, and personal independence. They also offer the perfect excuse to unplug and reconnect as a family. A summer full of real adventures. Stepping away from screens is a powerful way to reconnect with what truly matters: nature, free play, hands-on learning, and quality time together. In Gran Canaria, places like La Jaira de Ana make it easy to enjoy a genuine summer full of enriching activities your children will never forget. FAQs What can you do with children in Gran Canaria without screens? Activities like La Jaira de Ana’s Summer Camp, family cooking, traditional games, and nature outings are ideal choices. What are the best places to go with kids in Gran Canaria? We recommend: La Jaira de Ana (outdoor children’s activities). Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo. Parque Doramas. Museo Elder. Caldera de Bandama. Agaete’s natural pools. What are the benefits of screen-free activities for children? They improve focus, creativity, physical health, and social interaction. They also promote better sleep and reduce stress. Where is La Jaira de Ana located? In Agüimes, just minutes from Las Palmas. It’s a farm school perfect for a different kind of day out or for enrolling kids in a nature-based summer camp.