Rainy days, too-hot afternoons, or even those “I’m bored!” moments at home don’t have to be stressful. With a little creativity, you can turn ordinary days into fun-filled adventures right in your living room or backyard. Whether your kids love games, imaginative play, or getting crafty, these simple and budget-friendly activities will keep them entertained—and create memories you’ll all treasure. Here are 10 fun ideas to try with your family!
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1. Stuffy Hide and Seek:
Choose a Stuffed animal to hide somewhere in the house and then send your child(ren) to find it. If they have trouble finding it, give them clues or use "hot" and "cold". If your children are at different levels, hide one stuffy per child so your older children get more of a challenge.
2. Create an Obstacle Course:
Use whatever items you have around the house, such as pillows to jump over, a blanket to crawl under, plastic cups to wind through, or painter's tape on the floor as a "balance beam". Make it more difficult by adding a time to see who gets the fastest time.
3. Salon:
Grab the hairbrushes, nail polishes, and make-up brushes. Have a seat and let the kids pamper you, or each other, in your make-shift home salon. Don't love the idea of them dolling you up? Try these free printables - we suggest printing them on cardstock to prevent bleeding through.
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3. Board Games:
Our family loves to play board games. We've put together a list of our favorites for you to try.
4. Backyard Games:
Here are 5 fun and easy outdoor games to play with your children. Try one of these and then make your own!
5.Have a Picnic:
Kids love anything out of the normal routine, including a meal on the floor! Grab a blanket and some easy to eat food and find a shady spot outside or a cozy place in the house to enjoy. If your kids are older, let them make and pack the picnic - kids love to surprise their parents!
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6. Indoor Bowling:
Set up some plastic cups at the end of a hallway and roll a ball towards them to knock them down. Try different heights and different sizes of balls to see what works best.
7. Create your own book:
Let your child write a story and help them illustrate it. For younger kids, have them tell you the story while you write it down for them. When you're finished, staple it all together and enjoy a wonderful keepsake memory.
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8. Dance It Out:
Find a fun song and make up a dance routine. Teach the rest of the family and do it together.
9. Scavenger Hunt:
A scavenger hunt is something fun that you can do with your kids, either indoors or out. You can make your own, or use one of these Indoor Scavenger Hunts or Outdoor Scavenger Hunts. Older kids may also like this Selfie Scavanger Hunt.
10. Hold A Play:
Write your own play or act out a book you've read. Be sure to find some fun clothes or costumes to create your characters.
You may also like: The Truth About Letting Your Kids Be Bored.
