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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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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Pebble Towers
A mindful stacking challenge that explores balance and height using simple pebbles—great for focus, patience, and tiny engineering wins.
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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.
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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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Geocaching
Head outdoors with your phone or GPS and hunt for hidden treasures! Geocaching is a brilliant way to explore new places, get active, and add a bit of adventure to your walk.
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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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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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Sand Volcanoes
Shape your own volcano from beach sand, then pour water into the top to watch your ‘lava’ flow!
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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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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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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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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.
