Essentials
17 Indoor Activities for Kids for Hours of Fun
Stuck at home and kids are getting restless? Not to worry, here’s a list of 17 fun indoor activities for kids
January 8, 2021
Now that we’re all cooped up inside, a lot of us might want entertainment that doesn’t involve a screen. If you’re looking for indoor activities for kids, whether they are in their terrible twos or angsty teens, we hope you’ll find it below.
Creative
1. Write a story
Source: Barbershop Books
You can make randomized writing prompts by selecting different story elements from a hat. Make sure to color-code characters, themes and locations. You could choose to set up a timer or decide to write fanfiction. You can vote for the best story—just make sure everyone gets a sweet prize.
Here are some options:
2. Make slime or non-Newtonian fluid
There’s nothing like the good, clean fun of slime or the surreal experience of hitting a liquid that turns solid on impact and then picking up a lump only to feel it slip through your fingers. If you have no idea what we’re talking about, just watch this video.
What you’ll need:
3. Make playdough
Source: Modern Parents Messy Kids
Another important childhood memory. Everybody remembers a kid who ate playdough, but nobody admits to being that kid. You likely have most of the ingredients for playdough in your kitchen, so you can easily relive those memories with your little ones (minus the eating playdough part).
What you’ll need:
Cream of tartar
Food coloring
4. Put on a play or a show
Everybody loves the opportunity to be overly dramatic. Maybe reenacting your favorite Harry Potter scene is that opportunity for you. With choreography (if applicable) and costume design, you can stretch this game over several days. Don’t forget to record it, or at least take pictures.
Educational
5. Organize a book club
If your kids miss their friends, one way to organize regular virtual meetings is by starting a book club. Need inspiration? Scholastic provides book lists for children of all ages, and Julie Andrews hosts a podcast about children’s books with her daughter Emma.
6. Send postcards and letters all over the world
Source: Postcrossing.com
Wherever you are in the year, there’s always an upcoming holiday or birthday, and everybody loves receiving mail that isn’t bills. Start by creating handmade postcards for grandparents or relatives who live far away.
If you’re looking for a family hobby and want to connect with people from different countries, enroll in Postcrossing.
If you or your kids are learning languages, consider finding international pen pals to exchange snail mail with (try Interpals or Global Penfriends).
Screen Time
7. Have a film night
Staying home is a great time to introduce your kids to the movies that defined your childhood, from The Princess Bride to The NeverEnding Story. If movies did not define your childhood, here’s a list to get you started on your journey to becoming a cinephile.
You will need:
8. Enjoy console games
Source: Santa Clara County Library
While all correct people agree that Mario Kart: Double Dash is the best game ever, it is acceptable to play other games occasionally. Learn about the games your kids like—it’ll help you bond. Plus, there’s nothing more satisfying than crushing your kid at their favorite game.
You will need:
Alternatively, you could play online party games and have friends and family join via Zoom.
Physical Activities
9. Have a dance-off
Rewatch all the installments of Step Up and have a family dance-off. Shuffle all your music and see your partner getting down to the Spice Girls. It’s great exercise, and dance has been shown to improve mood and reduce stress.
You will need:
10. Organize a scavenger hunt
Source: The Spruce
A scavenger hunt is a great low-effort indoor activity for kids. Make a list of things that your kids can find in the house without making too much mess, have them take a photo of each object and come back when they have everything on the list. As a plus, you can use this game to find the remote control.
11. Set up an obstacle course
Obstacle courses combine physical activity and imagination. Pick your route making sure to avoid sharp edges and delicate furniture. The tasks can include jumping over physical objects (cushions) or following imaginary rules (hold on to your toes while moving from one room to another). Use duct tape to mark the course.
You will need:
12. Do a workout
Follow celebrity routines, try a new class every day or even make your own. There are plenty of YouTube videos to use! Your downstairs neighbors will thank you for not doing them in the wee hours.
Cooking
13. Enjoy homemade pizza
Source: Simply Recipes
Pizza is pretty great to begin with, but everything’s better homemade. There are even recipes for gluten-free and lactose-free folks. Check out our DIY pizza recipes.
14. Make your own ice cream
Ice cream is another great recipe to make with your family, especially if you live in one of the warmer states—though you may not want your kids to know how easy it is to make. If you don’t have a mixer, consider making ice cream in a sandwich bag.
For Teenagers
15. Make TikTok videos
Source: The Tab
You never know, it might make you famous. Repeat a trending TikTok dance or film your pets. If you don’t feel like sharing your life on social media, consider making some delicious TikTok drink recipes instead.
16. Have a spa day
Self-care isn’t just a prerogative of adults. School and friendships can be stressful, too. Plus, who doesn’t love a cool bath bomb? Dedicate an evening or a whole day to face masks, pedicures and relaxation.
What you’ll need:
17. Do personality tests
We all think we know ourselves, but personality tests might make us look at ourselves and our loved ones in a different way. Plus, they’re fun. Start with the classic Myers-Briggs personality test.
Has lockdown brought your family together but not made you closer? Check out 6 ways to prioritize spending time with your loved ones.
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