37 Activities for Kids Aged 3
Three-year-olds are curious, energetic, and full of imagination.
This is a great age for simple, playful activities that spark giggles, build connection, and let your child explore their world.
Here you’ll find easy, screen-free ideas for all kinds of days — whether you’ve got ten minutes or more time to fill. No pressure, no perfection — just warm, low-effort ways to enjoy time offline together.
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Threading with Pasta
A simple, mess-free craft using dry pasta and string that supports fine motor skills and creativity — perfect for quiet play or beginner crafting.
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Paper Tearing Collage
Tearing paper into little bits and sticking them down to make creative designs is great for coordination, focus, and self-expression — and it’s really fun too!
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Teddy Bear’s Picnic
Gather soft toys, lay out a blanket, and enjoy a pretend picnic together — perfect for imaginative play and a little outdoor (or indoor!) fun.
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Simon Says
A classic listening game that gets children moving, thinking and laughing. Ideal for developing attention, coordination and self-control.
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Kitchen Sound Lab
Turn everyday kitchen items into a toddler-friendly percussion lab! Tap, bang and stir to explore sound, rhythm and creativity through playful noise-making.
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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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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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What’s Missing?
A simple observation game that’s perfect for restaurants, waiting rooms or any moment where you need a few minutes of quiet fun.
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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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Duck Duck Goose
Simple, energetic and full of laughter, Duck Duck Goose is a brilliant game for groups of children. Great for burning off energy indoors or out.
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Do the Dishes
With a little encouragement, helping with the washing up can feel like play — especially for younger children who love bubbles, splashing, and being part of the team.
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Water Play Tub
A shallow tub, some toys, and a bit of water is all it takes to keep little hands busy. Water play supports sensory development and endless pretend fun.
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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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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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Join a Gymnastics Class
From forward rolls to balance beams, gymnastics helps kids build strength, flexibility and self-belief in a fun and friendly setting.
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Play Café
Turn your home into a play café where kids take orders, cook pretend meals, and serve their guests. A creative and confidence-building role-play game.
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Visit a Library
Take a trip to your local library for stories, quiet time, and new adventures. It’s a brilliant, budget-friendly way to build a love of books and learning.
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Ride a Bike
Head outside for a cycle! Whether on a balance bike, stabilisers, or full-sized wheels, bike riding boosts confidence, coordination, and independence.
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Play House
Whether it’s pretending to be parents, pets, or superheroes doing the washing up, playing house encourages role-play, empathy, and storytelling.
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LEGO Challenge
Set up creative build challenges for kids of all ages using LEGO or building blocks. Great for sparking imagination, problem-solving and fine motor skills.