70+ Indoor Activities for Kids [Screen-free]
Rainy day? Tired kids? We’ve got you covered with over 70 offline, no-prep activities to keep children busy, learning, and laughing — without screens.
We all know the feeling — it’s raining, the kids are bouncing off the walls, and you’re out of ideas.
That’s why we created this ultimate list of screen-free, easy-to-set-up activities for kids of all ages.
You’ll find ideas for quiet time, active play, crafts, learning games, and more — all doable with minimal prep.
Refine your search
Activity Type
Location Type
Energy Level
Mess Factor
Age
Time Duration
-
Interview a Family Member
A simple, low-prep chat activity where a child interviews a relative to capture family stories, build confidence, and practise listening.
-
Morse Code Messaging
A playful way to send secret messages with light or taps, building rhythm, spelling, and patient turn-taking.
-
Knots
A hands-on way to learn useful knots through simple challenges, building confidence for shoelaces, den-building, and everyday problem-solving.
-
Magic Potion Mixing
Create fizzing, glittering “potions” using safe household ingredients and a big dose of imagination.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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!
-
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.
-
Simon Says
A classic listening game that gets children moving, thinking and laughing. Ideal for developing attention, coordination and self-control.
-
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.
-
Finger Puppet Fun
Use finger puppets (or socks with faces!) to bring playful characters to life. A gentle, engaging way to support baby’s social and imaginative development.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Join a Drama Club
Drama clubs give children the chance to act, express themselves, and build confidence while making friends and having fun.
-
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.
