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.
Refine your search
Activity Type
Location Type
Energy Level
Mess Factor
Age
Time Duration
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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!
-
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.
-
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.
-
Learn a Musical Instrument
Learning an instrument is a rewarding journey that nurtures patience, creativity and a lifelong love of music.
-
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.
-
Sand Volcanoes
Shape your own volcano from beach sand, then pour water into the top to watch your ‘lava’ flow!
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Would You Rather?
A simple, silly conversation game where kids choose between two options. Perfect for car rides, mealtimes, or anytime you want a few giggles.
-
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.