The ubiquity of screens in kids’ lives has meant that their connection to the physical world is fading. Today, kids would much rather tap their 2D screens than experience the sights, sounds, smells, tastes and feelings of the 3D world. Right?

Not so fast. While preschoolers, kids and tweens do love their devices and the content they house, they are still drawn to the multi-sensory experiences of real-world play. In fact, there appears to be a resurgence of screen-free entertainment—ironically fueled and reinforced by YouTube videos.

Look no further than recent trends in flipping water bottles, making slime, “wearing” food, and, of course, whirling those fidget spinners. Together, they’re a clear reminder that screens will never fully replace the physical world and all of its tactile, visual, auditory, olfactory and gustatory sensations….

Source: Kidscreen » Archive » Hands on, screens off