10 Fun Indoor Activities My Kids Love and Yours Will Too

As a mama, I know how challenging it can be to keep little ones entertained, especially when the weather outside is less than inviting. It’s pretty hot over here in Texas, and Jackson is not a happy camper when he has to be cooped up in the house. So, we’ve had to get creative!

If you’re fighting cabin fever and looking for ways to keep your energetic kids or grandkids busy and happy indoors, you’ve come to the right place. These are 10 indoor activities that are sure to make your little ones happy!

1. DIY OBSTACLE COURSE

Make an obstacle course using pillows, blankets, and furniture. This idea not only promotes physical exercise but also encourages creativity and problem-solving. Plus, it’ll help to burn off some of that restless energy they have stored up. Watch as your little ones jump, crawl, and balance their way through the course!

Age-Appropriate Modifications: For toddlers, create a simple course with pillows and soft toys. Older kids can enjoy more complex setups with furniture and timed challenges.

Materials Checklist: Pillows, blankets, chairs, soft toys.

Limited Space Alternatives: Use a hallway or a small room, focusing on activities like hopping on one foot or crawling under a string stretched between two points.

2. INDOOR TREASURE HUNT

Hide small treats or toys around the house and draw up a treasure map or clues for your kids to follow. This fun activity will keep their minds engaged and their bodies moving as they search for hidden treasures.

Age-Appropriate Modifications: Use pictures as clues for younger children and written clues for older ones.

Materials Checklist: Paper for clues or maps, small treats or toys.Limited Space Alternatives: Make the hunt more about solving puzzles or riddles that lead to a hidden treasure in a common area.

3. CRAFT CORNER

Set up a crafting station with paper, glue, scissors, and any other materials you have on hand. From making paper snowflakes to making cards for grandma and grandpa, the possibilities are endless and perfect for sparking creativity.

Age-Appropriate Modifications: Simple coloring for toddlers and more complex crafts like DIY jewelry or model building for older children.

Materials Checklist: Paper, glue, scissors, coloring supplies, recycled materials.

Limited Space Alternatives: Use a dining table or a small desk as the crafting station, and focus on crafts that don’t require much space.

4. DANCE PARTY

Turn on some fun music and have a dance party in your living room. It’s a fantastic way to burn energy and make some memories. Plus, it’s a great opportunity for you to join in and show off your moves!

Age-Appropriate Modifications: Use nursery rhymes for younger kids and popular music for older ones. Encourage creative movements for toddlers and more structured dance routines for older children.

Materials Checklist: Music player, optional dress-up costumes.

Limited Space Alternatives: Even in a small space, a dance party can be a blast. Just clear a little room to move safely.

5. Puppet Show

Have your kids put on a puppet show. They can use sock puppets, paper bag puppets, or even their own hand puppets. This will foster their imagination and storytelling skills. Plus, it’s fun to watch! You might be amazed by how wild your kids’ imaginations can be.

Age-Appropriate Modifications: Toddlers can enjoy simple stories and colorful puppets, while older kids can write and perform their own plays.

Materials Checklist: Socks, paper bags, markers, yarn.

Limited Space Alternatives: Use a couch or a chair as a makeshift stage if you don’t have much room.

6. BAKING

Get your kids involved in the kitchen by baking some yummy cookies, cupcakes, or even a cake. You can even make it a rainy-day tradition! Baking is tons of fun and educational because it teaches measurements and following instructions. Plus, there’s a sweet treat at the end!

Age-Appropriate Modifications: Let toddlers stir and pour ingredients, while older children can take on more complex tasks like measuring and decorating.

Materials Checklist: Basic baking ingredients, mixing bowls, spoons, oven (with adult supervision).

Limited Space Alternatives: Choose no-bake recipes or simple snacks if kitchen space is tight.

7. SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS

Science experiments are a great way to keep your kids entertained! Try something like making a volcano with baking soda and vinegar or creating a rainbow with a glass of water and a flashlight. These activities are entertaining AND educational. That’s a win-win for you, mama!

Age-Appropriate Modifications: Simple experiments like mixing colors for younger kids, and more elaborate ones like homemade slime for older ones.

Materials Checklist: Household items like baking soda, vinegar, food coloring, water.

Limited Space Alternatives: Focus on experiments that require minimal setup and can be done on a tabletop.

8. INDOOR PICNIC

Who says picnics are only for outdoors? Lay out a blanket in your living room and have a picnic with your kids. You can prepare sandwiches, fruits, and snacks, turning mealtime into an exciting indoor adventure.

Age-Appropriate Modifications: Finger foods for toddlers and a more elaborate menu for older children.

Materials Checklist: Blanket, easy-to-eat snacks, and drinks.

Limited Space Alternatives: A living room floor or even a child’s bedroom can be a perfect picnic spot.

9. BOOK CHALLENGE

If your kids like reading, have a book challenge. Whoever reads the most pages or finishes the most books wins!

Age-Appropriate Modifications: If your kids are too little to read, then simply make this a story time opportunity and read them some of their favorite books. Here’s a few of Jackson’s favorites that your little one might like too:

• Read and Share Toddler Bible by Tommy Nelson
• Diggersaurs by Michael Whaite (especially the first two books)
• Potty Time With Elmo by Pi Kids (we’re in the middle of potty training)
• Who Sang the First Song? by Ellie Holcomb
• Big Red Barn by Margaret Wise Brown
• The Story of Country by Editors of Caterpillar Books and Lindsey Sagar

Materials Checklist: Books

10. BOARD GAME MARATHON

Pull out your board games and have a family game marathon. From classics like Candy Land and Chutes and Ladders to new favorites, board games are excellent for bonding and learning important skills like taking turns and good sportsmanship.

Age-Appropriate Modifications: Choose simple, quick games for younger kids and more strategic games for older children.

Materials Checklist: A selection of board games.

Limited Space Alternatives: If space is limited, card games or compact board games are a great choice.