48 Activities for Kids Aged 5 that take 15-30 mins
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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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Tray Memory Game
Children love studying a tray of curious objects and seeing how many they can remember once it’s been whisked away. It’s a calm, engaging game that encourages focus and memory skills — perfect for a quiet moment at home.
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Dots and Boxes
A simple pencil-and-paper game where players take turns joining dots to complete boxes. Great for quiet moments and early strategy skills.
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Journalling
A simple way for kids to reflect, express themselves, and build writing confidence. Perfect for quiet time or as part of a calming daily routine.
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What’s the Time Mr. Wolf
A classic outdoor running game that combines counting, listening and lots of giggles. Perfect for parks, gardens or school playgrounds.
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Emotion Cards
Create simple cards with different emotions and use them to spark gentle conversations about feelings. A great way to build emotional confidence and connection.
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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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Chinnies
Draw a face on your chin, flip the camera, and give your chin a starring role! Chinnies are a hilarious way to get the whole family giggling.
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Anything Boules
Play a fun, unpredictable game of pétanque using everyday items like socks, toy bricks, or crumpled paper! A great way to get kids laughing and aiming indoors or out.
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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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Charades
A brilliant game for all ages, charades gets everyone moving, thinking, and laughing. No equipment needed—just imagination and a bit of silliness.
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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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Hopscotch
All you need is some chalk and a bit of pavement for this throwback favourite. Hopscotch builds balance, number recognition and plenty of giggles.
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Draw a map
Encourage creativity and spatial thinking by helping your child draw a map—of a real place, a fantasy land, or even your own house.
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Make a Bird Feeder
Help local birds thrive by crafting your own feeder from natural or recycled materials. A simple way to support wildlife and spark curiosity.