78 Activities for Kids Aged 8
At eight, children are growing more independent and curious about the world around them. They enjoy activities that challenge their creativity, encourage problem-solving, and let their personalities shine.
These screen-free ideas are designed to be simple, engaging, and flexible — perfect for weekends, school holidays, or just switching off for a while. However you choose to join in, it’s all about playful connection and time well spent together.
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Activity Type
Location Type
Energy Level
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Age
Time Duration
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Skimming Stones
A timeless outdoor challenge — find the perfect flat stone and see how many times you can make it bounce across the water.
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Sand Mummy Wrap
Sculpt something silly in the sand by gently burying arms or legs — a fun and creative way to turn someone into a sand mermaid, dinosaur or superhero!
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Make a DIY Compass
Learn how to find North by making a simple compass from household items — a fun and hands-on introduction to magnetism and navigation.
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Join a Local Scouts or Guides Group
Scouting and Guiding groups offer fun, friendship and adventure. From Rainbows to Cubs to Explorers, there’s something for every age and interest.
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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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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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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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Beach Bowling
Turn the beach into your own bowling alley with just a beach ball and some plastic cups — perfect for a breezy bit of fun in the sand.
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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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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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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 Forest School Group
Forest school sessions give children the chance to explore the outdoors, learn practical skills, and grow in confidence through nature-based play.
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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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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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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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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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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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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.