Modern parenting often feels like a constant negotiation with technology. For many of us, the convenience of a tablet is a hard habit to break, especially during those moments when our energy is spent. While streaming shows and educational apps are helpful tools during long flights, there is a growing desire among millennial parents to reclaim the screen-free magic of their own childhoods—think outdoor play, active imaginations, and physical exploration. This concern is even reflected in modern media, with films like Toy Story 5 touching on the complex relationship between children and their devices.
Hoping to trade algorithms for “core memories,” I decided to embark on a screen-free experiment with my nearly five-year-old son, Leo. We packed our bags and headed to the Ojai Valley Inn, a destination known for its connection to nature, to see if we could navigate a family vacation without a single digital distraction.
Trading the iPad for Old-School Road Trip Games
The first hurdle was the drive from Los Angeles to Ojai. To set a firm boundary, we didn’t just hide the tablet; we removed the over-the-seat iPad holder entirely. This eliminated the visual cue that usually signals “movie time” the moment we hit the freeway. Instead of a screen, we filled the car with a chaotic mix of music—ranging from The Beatles to Frozen—and engaged in endless rounds of “I Spy.” To our surprise, the 90-minute journey passed without a single complaint of boredom, proving that the drive itself can be part of the adventure.
Finding Entertainment in the Great Outdoors
Upon arriving at our room at the Ojai Valley Inn, the lure of nature immediately took over. Our balcony offered views of the sprawling golf course, and a bedside fireplace became an instant focal point. Rather than asking for the television, my son was mesmerized by the dancing flames. It was a clear sign that when provided with a stimulating environment, the need for digital entertainment naturally fades into the background.
Hands-On Learning at the Apiary Experience
One of the highlights of the resort is the Apiary Experience, which was a perfect fit for a child obsessed with the natural world. We suited up in full beekeeping gear—looking like a miniature version of a science experiment—and headed out to the active hives. Over the course of two hours, we learned the intricacies of honey production and even witnessed a baby bee emerging for the first time.
The experience concluded with a tasting of cold-pressed honey and lavender lemonade. Watching my son remain fully engaged for two hours without a screen was a revelation. From smoking the hive with dried leaves to identifying worker bees, the tactile nature of the activity provided a level of focus that no app could replicate.
Navigating Mealtime Without Digital Crutches
Dining out with a tired preschooler is often when parents reach for a screen to ensure a quiet meal. At The Oak, the property’s signature restaurant, we relied on a washable coloring mat to keep Leo occupied. The real test came when a neighboring table began playing the Bluey theme song. We braced for a meltdown, but by staying engaged in conversation and focusing on the local cuisine—including a very popular kid’s burger—the moment passed unnoticed. We ended the evening by the fire tables, roasting marshmallows from a house-made s’mores kit under the stars, completing a full day of screen-free connection.
Balancing Childhood Adventure with Parental Relaxation
The second day of our trip highlighted the resort’s ability to cater to both kids and adults. While I retreated to Spa Ojai for a yoga session and a facial, Leo attended Camp Oak. This dedicated kids’ program offers themed days—like “Animal Kingdom”—where children engage in sensory play, mask-making, and outdoor crafts. Knowing he was making “slime” and building shell magnets allowed me to enjoy a rare moment of stillness.
We spent our final afternoon at the Pixie Pool, a family-centric area that balances energy and relaxation perfectly. The resort also offers a variety of other screen-free activities, including horseback riding, fishing, and guided jeep tours, ensuring that families have plenty of ways to interact with the landscape and each other.
PRO TRAVELER TIPCamp Oak provides structured half-day and full-day sessions on weekends, with lunch provided for the full-day option. Weekday sessions require a reservation. If you are looking for a screen-free evening for the kids while you enjoy a quiet dinner, “Night Camp” is available on Fridays and Saturdays, featuring dinner and s’mores. It is highly recommended to book these programs at least 24 hours in advance.
The Lasting Impact of a Digital Detox
As our trip came to a close, it was clear that none of us missed the constant hum of technology. While this experience didn’t permanently banish the iPad from our lives, it served as a powerful reminder that engagement is the ultimate antidote to screen addiction. When children are given the space to get messy, curious, and physically exhausted by play, the digital world loses its grip. Ojai Valley Inn provided the perfect backdrop for this reset, showing that sometimes the best way to reconnect as a family is to simply unplug.
Taking a break from screens during a family vacation allows everyone to be more present and responsive to their surroundings. By replacing passive watching with active participation—whether through nature programs, creative play, or simple fireside conversations—parents can foster a sense of wonder that lasts long after the trip ends. The key takeaway from our Ojai experience is that kids don’t necessarily need technology to be entertained; they just need an environment that invites them to explore.
