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How I Cut My Kids’ Screen Time in Half with This Simple Tool!

Written by Viktoriia Karakulova

How often do your kids have screen time? Every day? Just on weekends? Or maybe, like many parents, you find yourself handing them a device during long car rides, flights, or when you just need a moment of peace?

Let’s be real—screens are convenient. They can keep kids quiet when you’re at a café, make long trips easier, or give you the break you need after a long day. But at the same time, you might feel guilty about too much screen time or wish you had more screen-free activities that could actually engage and develop your child instead of just keeping them occupied.

I get it. As a mum of two energetic boys (ages 4 and 6), I’ve been through the same struggle. We love spontaneous trips, outdoor adventures, and exploring new places. But keeping them entertained without screens—especially while travelling—felt like an impossible challenge.

The Endless Packing Struggle

Every time we left the house, I found myself stuffing their backpacks with a mix of activities—LEGO, playdough, colouring books, puzzles, and their favourite small toys. It was a lot of prep work, and honestly? Half the time, they’d lose interest in everything within 10 minutes.

Eventually, I let them start packing their own little backpacks. (Pro tip: Giving kids the power to choose their own travel activities works wonders.) They loved the independence, and I’d sneak in something new as a surprise. This helped, but I still needed something that was:

  • Compact and lightweight – No room for bulky toys.
  • Mess-free – Because I wasn’t about to deal with sticky playdough in a café.
  • Long-lasting and engaging – No more “I’m bored” after five minutes.
  • Educational and creative – I wanted something that actually benefited them, not just kept them busy.

And then, I stumbled upon something unexpectedly perfect—wax sticks.

half screen time creative crafts

The Unexpected Game-Changer

Yes, wax sticks. Colourful yarn sticks coated in food-grade wax. That’s it. No screens, no mess, just endless creativity packed into a tiny, travel-friendly tool.

My boys were instantly hooked. These little sticks could be twisted, bent, and shaped into animals, letters, numbers, or even 3D creations. Suddenly, waiting at a restaurant or sitting through a long car ride wasn’t a battle—it was fun.

Here’s how we use them:

  • Follow-the-lines activities – They’re great for tracing pictures, just like a pen or crayon.
  • Learn letters and numbers – My kids shape letters to spell their names or create simple math problems.
  • Decorate windows – They stick to plane or car windows (and easily wipe off).
  • Create 3D animals and objects – No extra supplies needed—just their imagination.
  • Themed crafts – Perfect for Halloween, Christmas, or any holiday-themed play.

I had no idea something so simple would keep them engaged for hours. Even better? They’re reusable. Unlike stickers or paper crafts, these sticks can be reshaped and used again and again.

They fit perfectly into a travel backpack, making them the easiest screen-free entertainment for road trips, flights, or even just keeping kids busy while waiting for food at a café.

Crafty Curls – The Screen-Free Solution

I loved them so much that I decided to bring them to Australia under my own brand, TWO CUBS.

Crafty Curls aren’t just another craft activity—they’re a portable, reusable, and eco-friendly solution that helps kids develop creativity, fine motor skills, and hand-eye coordination while making playtime stress-free for parents.

  • Mess-Free and Creative – Perfect for home, travel, and waiting rooms.
  • Fine Motor Skill Booster – Helps with dexterity and coordination.
  • Perfect for On-the-Go – Lightweight, compact, and easy to pack.
  • Reusable and Eco-Friendly – Made from organic yarn and food-grade wax.

Whether you need an after-school activity, a travel essential, or a way to cut down on screen time, Crafty Curls are a game-changer.

Where to Get Them

Crafty Curls are available in:

 Travel Pack – Compact for on-the-go fun.

 Mega Box – Perfect for home, classrooms, and creative play sessions.

Shop now at www.twocubs.com.au and bring creativity wherever you go!

 

Viktoriia Karakulova is the founder of TWO CUBS, an Australian brand dedicated to making family travel and everyday life with kids easier, more organised, and screen-free. Inspired by her own experiences as a mum of two young boys, she created TWO CUBS to provide fun, eco-friendly, and educational travel accessories that keep kids engaged while supporting their development. Learn more at www.twocubs.com.au.

 

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