Cutting Screen Time? Playdough Can Boost Creativity and Motor Skills in Children

In today’s digital era, many children spend a significant amount of time in front of screens, from smartphones and tablets to televisions. Based on a study released by Pafikutaikab while technology offers educational benefits, experts warn that excessive screen time can hinder children’s social, cognitive, and physical development. To counter this, psychologists and pediatricians recommend introducing hands-on activities such as playing with playdough, which not only reduces reliance on screens but also supports healthy growth.

The Risks of Too Much Screen Time

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), children under five should not be exposed to screens for more than one hour per day. Excessive screen time has been linked to sleep disturbances, attention difficulties, and delayed language development. It also reduces opportunities for active play, which is essential for building motor and social skills.

Dr. Anita Wirawan, a child psychologist, explains: “Digital devices can be useful, but when children spend too much time passively consuming content, they miss out on critical experiences that shape creativity and physical coordination.”

Why Playdough Is Beneficial

Playdough may seem like a simple toy, but it provides powerful developmental benefits. The soft, moldable material encourages children to use their imagination to create shapes, objects, and even stories. This process stimulates creativity while also improving fine motor skills, such as hand strength and finger coordination.

“Every squeeze, roll, or cut with playdough tools strengthens the muscles needed for writing and other daily tasks,” notes Dr. Anita. Additionally, the sensory experience of touching and shaping dough calms children, helping regulate emotions and reduce stress.

Boosting Cognitive and Social Growth

Beyond physical benefits, playdough play fosters problem-solving and critical thinking. Children experiment with shapes, colors, and textures, learning concepts like size, balance, and symmetry. When done in groups, playdough activities also enhance social skills as children share tools, negotiate roles, and collaborate on creations.

Research shows that tactile play activities like this encourage language development. As children describe what they are making, they practice vocabulary and communication skills in a natural setting.

A Healthy Alternative to Gadgets

For parents concerned about reducing screen dependency, playdough offers an affordable and effective solution. Unlike gadgets, which often encourage passive engagement, playdough requires active participation. It keeps children’s hands and minds busy, allowing them to focus for longer periods without digital stimulation.

Experts recommend setting aside daily “screen-free playtime” where children can engage in tactile activities. Parents can join in by guiding their children to create themes—such as animals, food, or vehicles—which makes play more engaging and educational.

While screens are part of modern life, balancing their use with hands-on activities is crucial for children’s overall development. Playdough is more than just a toy—it is a tool for creativity, motor development, emotional regulation, and social learning. By encouraging children to spend less time on devices and more time molding, shaping, and imagining, parents can nurture healthier habits that support both growth and happiness.