Because sometimes you just run out of ideas!
If you’ve ever had your toddler rummage through your kitchen cabinets, or jump on your living room couch like it’s a trampoline, you know that little ones tend to have BIG energy.
My twin toddlers LOVE to just take out all of my plastic Tupperware and leave them scattered all throughout the kitchen.
And while I love that about them (most of the time), it also means I’ve needed to get creative when it comes to family fun.
If you’re looking for fun things to do with young kids that don’t involve screens or meltdowns in aisle five, you’re in the right place.
Here are 10 easy, affordable, and FUN family activities for toddlers and young kids that you can actually enjoy—without needing to pack a week’s worth of snacks or plan like you’re launching a rocket.
1. Backyard Obstacle Course Adventure
No Pinterest-level crafting skills required, I promise. (You should know by now, that I’m NOT the Pinterest kinda mom)
Just grab what you’ve got! Cones, pool noodles, hula hoops, and even couch cushions. Set up a mini obstacle course in the backyard or even your living room.
Have the kids crawl under a chair, jump over a broomstick, and wiggle like a worm to the finish line. Add a timer if they’re competitive, or just keep it goofy and low-pressure. This is a fun activity that burns energy and works on motor skills.
2. Kitchen Dance Party
The ultimate indoor activity! Clear a little floor space, crank up fast paced music, and let loose.
I’m a typical millennial mom and I’m still stuck in the early 2000’s- so that’s the music I love to put on and dance to with the twins.
Dancing gets everyone up and moving and is a major mood-booster! If I find my kids getting antsy, or starting to melt down a lot- dance parties are the way to go.
3. Nature Scavenger Hunt
Whether you’re at the park or just walking around the block, a scavenger hunt makes any outing feel like an adventure.
Look for things like a red flower, a dog, a feather, or a funny-shaped rock.
My favorite is finding something that is every color of the rainbow!
Can’t go outside? Do a color or shape hunt indoors! (“Find something round!” Find something square!” “What’s under the couch?”)
4. Family Picnic—Indoors or Out
There’s something nostalgic about eating lunch on a blanket. Even if it’s just PB&Js and string cheese, a picnic feels special.
Head to a local park, your backyard, or even your living room floor. Let the kids help pack the basket (snack control at your own risk), and enjoy a messier-than-normal meal together.
Don’t forget bubbles or a ball to roll around afterward. Because what is toddler energy if not eternal?
5. DIY Sensory Bins
Before you run away at the word “sensory,” hear me out—it doesn’t have to be complicated or social media perfect.
Fill a bin or large bowl with rice, pasta, or dried beans and toss in measuring cups, plastic animals, or toys. Done.
It’s basically toddler gold. They’ll scoop, pour, dig, and explore—and you’ll get (maybe?) ten full minutes of peace. Maybe.
6. Library Story Time or Free Local Events
If you haven’t hit up your local library lately, go! Most offer free story times, music classes, or craft sessions for little ones. Plus, they’re air-conditioned and full of free books to take home.
Check your community center or town calendar for seasonal events too. Parades, touch-a-truck days, and farmer’s markets can be surprisingly toddler-friendly.
In this economy? We LOVE free events!
7. Make a Fort, Rule the World (or Home)
Grab some blankets, pillows, and maybe a flashlight or two, and you’ve got yourself a cozy toddler cave.
Read books, tell stories, or just cuddle inside while your kids pretend you’re camping in the wilderness (or on the moon, depending on the imagination level that day).
Don’t forget the snacks!!!
8. Simple Baking Together
Yes, it will get messy. Yes, your toddler might eat half the cookie dough before it hits the tray. And yes, it may take way longer than it’s supposed to. But baking is a fun, hands-on way to bond, practice counting and following directions, and end up with a treat you can all enjoy.
Choose easy recipes like banana muffins, boxed brownies, or pancakes.
Anticipate the mess and just make sure to have some paper towels on hand!
9. Zoo, Aquarium, or Petting Farm Visit
Animals + toddlers = endless entertainment. Even the chillest zoo visit feels like a full-on safari to a toddler. Many places offer discounts on certain days or annual memberships that pay off fast if you go often.
Pack your own snacks, bring a stroller or wagon, and know your exit time. A meltdown is always just around the corner—but so is the lion exhibit, so it balances out.
These are also great learning places! There’s so much to look at and learn when around animals.
10. “Yes Day” (Mini Version!)
Give your toddler a few choices and let them be in charge. Maybe it’s picking what’s for lunch, which park to visit, or what pajamas to wear at noon (we don’t judge here).
A mini “yes day” makes them feel empowered—and can help shake up your usual routine in the best way.
Maybeee just limit the snacks- or don’t- again, no judgement here.
Final Thoughts
Finding fun family activities to do with toddlers and young kids doesn’t have to be expensive or overly planned. In fact, the best memories often come from the simplest moments—dancing in the kitchen, building a fort, or giggling over Goldfish in the park.
Toddlers may be tiny chaos machines, but they’re also a lot of fun. Try a few of these ideas, and you might just enjoy a few meltdown-free hours (or at least get a cute photo or two).
Got a favorite activity that saves your sanity or fills your little one’s cup? Share it in the comments below—I’m always looking to add more fun (and functional) ideas to the toddler survival toolbox!
