Screen-Free Kids’ Activities That Take 30 to 60 Minutes
Activities That Fill the Time — Without a Screen in Sight
Sometimes you just need something that lasts a bit longer — enough time to make a cup of tea, answer an email, or simply catch your breath.
This collection of 30 to 60 minute activities is perfect for keeping kids focused and entertained without switching on a screen.
You’ll find creative crafts, imagination games, outdoor fun and more — all designed to be engaging, low-prep and easy to set up at home or on the go.
Ideal for quieter afternoons, rainy days, or just a well-earned pause.
Refine your search
Activity Type
Energy Level
Mess Factor
Age
Time Duration
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Elderflower Cordial
A lovely seasonal activity that starts with foraging and ends with a refreshing homemade drink. Get outside, pick some elderflowers, and make something delicious together.
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Junior ParkRun
Junior ParkRun is a brilliant, free way for kids to enjoy running in the great outdoors — all while building confidence, friendships and healthy habits.
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Make Muffins
Baking muffins is a fun, tasty way for children to get involved in the kitchen, practise basic maths, and enjoy the rewards of their hard work.
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Join a Local Music Group
Playing music with others is a joyful way for children to develop their skills, make friends, and experience the magic of performing as a group.
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Go Foraging
Foraging is a hands-on way for children to connect with nature, learn about the seasons, and discover wild food — all with close adult supervision.
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Rockpooling
Explore tide pools and discover tiny sea creatures hiding between the rocks — perfect for curious little beach adventurers.
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Join a Drama Club
Drama clubs give children the chance to act, express themselves, and build confidence while making friends and having fun.
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Sign Up for Swimming Lessons
Swimming lessons help children stay active, build water confidence and learn essential safety skills — all while having fun with their peers.
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Cook a Meal
Get kids involved in the kitchen with simple, fun meal ideas they can help prepare. A great way to build confidence, life skills and family connection.
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Rock Painting
Grab some smooth stones, paint, and let kids turn rocks into mini works of art. Perfect for creative outdoor or indoor fun—and lovely to hide for others to find!
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Learn a Musical Instrument
Learning an instrument is a rewarding journey that nurtures patience, creativity and a lifelong love of music.
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Indoor Bowling
Create a mini bowling alley at home using plastic bottles and a soft ball. It’s a fun, active way to build coordination and enjoy a bit of friendly competition.
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Attend an Art Club or Workshop
Art clubs and workshops give children space to be creative, experiment with materials, and enjoy the freedom to express themselves.
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Join a Choir or Singing Group
Singing with others builds musical ability, confidence and connection — and it’s a joyful way for kids to express themselves.
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DIY Top Trumps
Design, draw, and battle! DIY Top Trumps is a fun mix of creativity and strategy as kids make their own themed card decks and challenge friends or family to a showdown.
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Make a Mud Pie
Let children dig, mix, and decorate their own pretend pies using soil, water, and whatever nature offers. It’s a joyful, sensory-rich activity that celebrates mess and creativity.
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Pub Cricket
Spot pub signs and count legs to score runs in this funny travel game. Full of friendly rule debates, it’s perfect for UK and Ireland countryside trips.
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Build a Campfire
Learn how to safely build a campfire and enjoy the magic of firelight. Perfect for garden evenings, nature outings, or family camping trips.
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Take a Dance Class
Whether it’s ballet or street dance, classes are a great way for children to move their bodies, make friends and enjoy creative expression.
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Post Office
Create a pretend post office at home! Kids can write letters, sort the mail, and deliver it around the house as part of this imaginative and literacy-rich role-play.