Parental Involvement: Medium

  • Attend an Art Club or Workshop

    Attend an Art Club or Workshop

    Art clubs and workshops are brilliant spaces for children to explore their creativity in a relaxed and social setting.

    Whether it’s after school or at the weekend, these sessions often focus on fun, process-led activities like painting, drawing, printing or sculpture — with no pressure for things to look a certain way.

    Children benefit from learning new techniques, using a wide range of materials, and gaining confidence in their ideas and abilities. Many clubs are themed or seasonal, and some may include visiting artists or local exhibitions to inspire young makers.

    Why It’s Great

    • Creative Expression – Encourages imagination and self-confidence through open-ended art activities.
    • Fine Motor Skills – Strengthens hand–eye coordination and tool use.
    • Mindful Focus – Offers calm, screen-free time to relax and engage fully with the task.
    • Social & Inclusive – Welcomes all abilities and allows children to share ideas and explore together.

    How to Get Started

    • Search for local children’s art clubs, community workshops or events at galleries or libraries.
    • Check whether the club provides materials or if children need to bring their own.
    • Look for inclusive, process-based classes where exploration is the focus rather than finished products.
    • Dress for mess — old clothes or an apron are ideal.

    Variations

    • One-Off Workshops: Great for trying something new like clay modelling, printmaking or collage.
    • Themed Clubs: Some sessions explore nature, storytelling or even art history through hands-on making.
    • Family Art Sessions: Some clubs offer weekend or holiday sessions where parents and carers can join in too.

    Safety Tips

    • Ensure the space is well-ventilated and age-appropriate materials are used.
    • Staff should be DBS-checked and provide supervision throughout.
    • Non-toxic paints and materials should be used, especially for younger children.
  • Chinnies

    Chinnies

    “Chinnies” (or upside down chin people) is a wonderfully silly activity where children draw a face on their chin, turn their head upside down, and use a phone or mirror to bring their new character to life. It’s simple, light-hearted, and guaranteed to spark laughter—perfect for rainy afternoons or moments when everyone needs a quick mood boost.

    All you need is a mirror or phone camera, a safe face pen, and a bit of creativity. You might be surprised how expressive a chin can be!

    Materials Needed

    • Washable face paint pen or eyeliner pencil (avoid permanent markers)
    • Mirror or phone with front-facing camera
    • Towel or scarf (to cover the rest of the face)

    Tools Needed

    • None

    Steps

    1. Prep the Chin
      Wash and dry the area around the chin. Use a mirror if your child wants to help draw.
    2. Draw a Face
      Draw eyes on the chin, or stick eyes on. You can also add other flourishes like a moustache or hair.
    3. Cover the Face
      Use a towel, scarf, or t-shirt to cover the upper face and hair—just leave the chin exposed.
    4. Flip the Camera
      Use a front-facing phone camera or mirror so the chin person appears the right way up.
    5. Perform!
      Give your chin character a name, a silly voice, and maybe even act out a short skit or song. The more teeth, tongue, and crazy mouth movements the better!

    Variations

    • Video Messages: Record a silly greeting from your chin person to send to family or friends.
    • Double Act: Make two chinnies and film a conversation or talent show between them.
    • Crafty Costumes: Add paper hats or mini props taped to the chin for extra character.
    • Character Challenge: Draw different expressions—grumpy, excited, surprised—and guess what each one is.
  • Join a Choir or Singing Group

    Join a Choir or Singing Group

    Whether it’s a school choir, community group or church ensemble, singing in a group is a fantastic way for children to explore music, work as a team, and gain confidence. Kids of all abilities are welcome — there’s no need to read music or have solo experience to join in.

    Sessions usually include warm-ups, vocal games, learning songs together, and sometimes preparing for performances. Singing together also helps develop listening skills, emotional expression and a strong sense of connection with others.

    Why It’s Great

    • Musical Development – Builds pitch, rhythm, memory and ear training in a natural, engaging way.
    • Confidence & Joy – Performing as part of a group can feel empowering and uplifting.
    • Teamwork – Teaches collaboration, timing, and listening to others.
    • Emotional Expression – Singing is a creative outlet that can boost wellbeing and mood.

    How to Get Started

    • Look for local children’s choirs or singing groups at schools, churches, or music centres.
    • Most groups welcome new members of all ability levels, especially in younger age ranges.
    • Trial sessions or “come and sing” events are often available to see if it’s a good fit.
    • No special equipment needed — just bring a water bottle and enthusiasm!

    Variations

    • Pop Choirs: More relaxed, modern styles with upbeat tunes and simple harmonies.
    • Traditional or Classical Choirs: Focus on vocal training, sacred music or traditional arrangements.
    • Show Choirs: Combine singing with light choreography for an energetic group experience.

    Safety Tips

    • Make sure sessions are run by qualified, DBS-checked leaders in a safe environment.
    • Children should feel encouraged and supported, not judged — especially in early sessions.
    • Voice strain can be avoided with proper warm-ups and age-appropriate vocal ranges.
  • Make a Mud Pie

    Make a Mud Pie

    Making mud pies is one of those beautifully simple activities that invites children to get stuck in, use their imagination, and connect with the outdoors.

    There’s no right or wrong way to do it—just scooping, stirring, decorating, and a whole lot of joyful mess.

    It’s a great opportunity for sensory play and imaginative role-play, whether your child is running a pretend bakery or creating magical nature potions.

    Best of all, it uses materials that are easy to find and encourages children to explore the textures and patterns of the natural world.

    Materials Needed

    • Soil or mud (a damp patch of garden or potting soil in a tray)
    • Water
    • Old bowls, pots, spoons or kitchen utensils
    • Leaves, flower petals, sticks, stones for decoration

    Tools Needed

    • Watering can, jug, or small bucket
    • Trowel or large spoon (optional)

    Steps

    1. Choose a Mud Pie Spot
      Set up in the garden, a corner of the park, or even on a waterproof mat with a tray of soil if you don’t have outdoor space.
    2. Mix It Up
      Add water to the soil to create lovely, squishy mud. Let children feel the texture and adjust the mix themselves.
    3. Shape and Decorate
      Use old bowls or pots as “pie tins” and decorate with leaves, petals, or pebbles.
    4. Serve and Pretend
      Encourage pretend café play, magic spells, or nature-themed creations—wherever their imagination takes them.
    5. Let It Be
      There’s no need for a perfect pie. It’s all about the process, not the result.

    Variations

    • Nature Bakery: Create a menu of mud cupcakes, pebble biscuits, and leaf lasagne.
    • Birthday Mud Cake: Add stick “candles” and sing happy birthday to a favourite toy.
    • Outdoor Café: Set up a pretend café with a name, menu, and “customers” (toys or carers).
    • Potion Play: Add petals, herbs or coloured water and turn it into a potion-making lab.

    Safety Tips

    • Always supervise young children during messy play, especially around water and natural materials.
    • Make sure hands are washed thoroughly afterwards—especially before eating.
    • Use clean soil and avoid muddy areas where pets or wildlife may have been.
    • Encourage children not to touch their face or mouth during the activity.

  • Pub Cricket

    Pub Cricket

    Submitted by Ross W. Submit your own activity here.

    This travel game is a source of many an argument – just as real cricket can be.

    It works best as you travel through rural areas in the UK and Ireland (maybe other places).

    The basic rules are:

    • You take it in turns to be “in”
    • If you are “in” and you see a pub sign that has legs on it, you score a “run” for each leg. So if you see “The King George” you get 2 runs. If you see “The Horse and Hounds”… well. (We make plurals equivalent to 2, so a “Horse and Hounds” would be 12 runs)
    • If you are in and you or someone else sees a pub sign with no legs on, you are out and the next person goes in.

    You will need to decide the precise nature of how the game works. Arguing about the rules is part of the “fun”.

    For example:

    • Do pubs without signs count? Or is it only signs?
    • Do you only count the legs shown on the sign?
    • Do you have to actually see the pub in question? Or is “The Unicorn -> 200yds” acceptable?
    • How do you score “Arms”? Is “The King’s Arms” zero runs and out because it’s a coat of arms? Or does the presence of the King count?
    • What even IS a pub? Do hotels count?

    The winner is obviously the person with the most runs at the end of the journey. Or when you’re all very annoyed with each other and decide to stop playing.

    A photo of a pub called "Shepherd & Flock"
    How many ‘points ‘runs’ would this pub score?

  • Take a Dance Class

    Take a Dance Class

    Dance classes offer a wonderful mix of rhythm, creativity and physical activity.

    Whether children are into high-energy styles like hip hop or prefer the structure of ballet or tap, there’s a dance class to suit every personality and ability level.

    Classes usually begin with a warm-up and stretch, followed by age-appropriate routines, games and choreography. Children gain confidence as they learn new moves and may even take part in performances or showcases, depending on the class.

    Why It’s Great

    • Physical Activity – Builds strength, flexibility, coordination and stamina.
    • Confidence & Self-Expression – Encourages creativity and positive self-image through movement.
    • Discipline & Listening – Teaches rhythm, timing, and following directions as part of a group.
    • Community & Fun – Children enjoy socialising and moving together in a structured but joyful environment.

    How to Get Started

    • Search online for children’s dance classes near you — look for styles like ballet, street, tap, or creative movement.
    • Check local leisure centres, community halls, and performing arts schools.
    • Many clubs offer a trial class or beginner course to get started.
    • Children usually wear a dance outfit or comfy clothes with non-slip shoes — uniforms may be introduced later.

    Variations

    • Creative Movement: For toddlers and preschoolers — focus is on playful movement and body awareness.
    • Performance Groups: Older children might take part in recitals, shows or competitions.
    • Inclusive Classes: Some studios offer SEN-friendly dance classes with adapted routines and sensory-friendly spaces.

    Safety Tips

    • Ensure classes are taught by qualified instructors in a safe, supervised environment.
    • Proper warm-up and cool-down routines help reduce injury risks.
    • Dance floors should be slip-resistant and appropriate for the style being taught.
  • Post Office

    Post Office

    Playing Post Office is a fantastic make-believe activity that also supports early literacy and communication skills. Children can write letters or drawings, stamp envelopes, and deliver them around the house using a toy satchel or basket.

    This activity encourages writing, role-play, turn-taking, and organisation—and it brings joy when the “post” arrives! It’s also a great way to sneak in handwriting practice or connect with family members through real or pretend letters.

    Materials Needed

    • Paper, envelopes, or folded cards
    • Stamps or stickers
    • Pens, pencils, crayons
    • Basket, bag, or toy satchel for deliveries

    Tools Needed

    • Scissors and glue (optional, for creating stamps or post box)

    Steps

    1. Set Up a Writing Station
      Provide paper, cards, crayons, and stickers for creating letters and parcels.
    2. Make Stamps
      Draw or cut out pretend stamps and stick them onto envelopes.
    3. Sort the Post
      Bundle letters together and assign them to different “houses” (rooms or people).
    4. Deliver the Mail
      Load up a postbag and make deliveries throughout the house—knocking, posting, and announcing the mail as you go!
    5. Swap Roles
      Take turns being the writer, sender, and postie.

    Variations

    • Post Box Craft: Make a post box from a cereal box or shoebox with a slot at the top.
    • Special Delivery: Add urgency—someone’s birthday card needs to arrive in time!
    • Real-Life Link: Write real letters to grandparents, friends, or neighbours and post them for real.
    • Parcel Post: Wrap small toys in paper and “deliver” packages with care instructions.
  • Join a Gymnastics Class

    Join a Gymnastics Class

    Gymnastics classes offer children a brilliant mix of fun, focus and physical activity.

    Whether it’s learning to cartwheel or simply practising balance and coordination, these sessions are packed with movement that supports healthy growth and development.

    Classes are typically structured to suit different ages and abilities, making it a great ongoing activity that builds confidence over time. Kids also benefit from group routines, partner work and gentle challenges that promote resilience and teamwork.

    Why It’s Great

    • Physical Development – Improves flexibility, coordination, balance and core strength.
    • Confidence Building – Accomplishing new skills boosts self-esteem and motivation.
    • Fun and Social – Encourages friendships and group play in a supportive environment.
    • Body Awareness – Teaches safe movement, spatial awareness and body control.

    How to Get Started

    • Search online for “children’s gymnastics classes near me” or check with your local leisure centre or community hall.
    • Look for British Gymnastics–accredited clubs, which ensure safety and age-appropriate coaching.
    • Trial sessions are often available so children can try before committing.
    • Wear comfy clothes or check with the club about a uniform after a few weeks.

    Variations

    • Parent & Toddler Gym: Many clubs offer soft-play style gym sessions for under 5s to explore safely.
    • Display Teams: Older or more advanced kids may get involved in choreographed routines for local shows or festivals.
    • Trampoline Clubs: For those who love bouncing, some gyms also offer recreational trampoline sessions.

    Safety Tips

    • Ensure the club is affiliated with a recognised body (like British Gymnastics) and instructors are qualified and insured.
    • Children should warm up properly and follow all safety rules shared by the coaches.
    • Keep water bottles handy and take regular rest breaks, especially in warm venues.
  • Play Café

    Play Café

    Setting up a restaurant or café is a classic pretend play activity that brings together creativity, communication, and just the right amount of chaos. Children can take on roles as chef, waiter, customer—or all three—and enjoy making menus, serving dishes, and handling orders.

    Whether using play food or real (safe) snacks, this activity encourages social interaction, early maths and literacy skills, and builds confidence through imaginative play. It’s also great fun for siblings or playdates.

    Materials Needed

    • Play food or safe real snacks (e.g. fruit, crackers, dry cereal)
    • Toy or real crockery and cutlery
    • Paper and pens for menus or order pads
    • Optional: apron, tray, tablecloth

    Tools Needed

    • None (unless including real food preparation with adult help)

    Steps

    1. Set Up the Dining Area
      Lay a table using real or toy dishes. Add decorations like a tablecloth, napkins, or flowers.
    2. Create a Menu
      Let children draw or write a menu with pictures and prices for their dishes.
    3. Assign Roles
      One child can be the waiter or chef, while others take turns as guests.
    4. Take Orders and Serve
      Guests “order” from the menu, and the chef prepares and delivers the meals.
    5. Swap Roles
      Switch roles so everyone gets a chance to be customer and server.

    Variations

    • Drive-Thru or Takeaway: Set up a counter and take food orders through a pretend window or phone.
    • Bake and Serve: Prepare simple snacks like toast, fruit salad, or rice cakes as part of the café experience (with adult help).
    • Write Receipts: Add a maths twist by having children total the order and write out receipts.
    • Themed Restaurant: Try an ice cream parlour, pizza place, or fancy bistro with costumes and background music.
  • Charades

    Charades

    Charades is a classic guessing game that’s full of fun and totally flexible. It’s ideal for families, small groups, or even one-on-one time with your child. All it takes is a few ideas—movies, animals, actions—and a willingness to be a bit silly.

    This game encourages creativity, communication, and body awareness while giving everyone a chance to shine. It works brilliantly indoors on rainy days, and you can easily adapt it to suit different ages and abilities.

    What You Need

    • Small slips of paper
    • Pens or pencils
    • A bowl or hat
    • A timer (optional)

    Setup

    • Write down different actions, phrases, characters, or objects on slips of paper. These can be themed (e.g. movies, animals, jobs) or completely random.
    • Fold the slips and place them into a bowl or hat.
    • Divide into two teams.

    Steps

    1. Choose one player from the first team to act out the word or phrase without speaking or making any sounds.
    2. Start the timer (e.g. 1–2 minutes).
    3. The rest of their team tries to guess the word or phrase before the timer runs out.
    4. If they guess correctly, their team scores a point.
    5. Teams take turns, with a new actor each round.
    6. Play continues for a set number of rounds or until all slips have been used.

    Standard Gestures

    • Number of words: Hold up fingers to show how many words are in the phrase (e.g. two fingers for “two words”).
    • Number of syllables: Tap your forearm with the number of syllables in the word using your fingers.
    • Which word: Hold up the number of fingers to indicate which word you’re acting out (e.g. three fingers for the third word).
    • Sounds like: Cup your hand behind your ear.
    • Short word (like “a” or “the”): Use your thumb and index finger to show something tiny.
    • Movie: Pretend to crank an old-fashioned movie camera.
    • Book: Open your hands as if opening a book.
    • TV show: Trace a rectangle in the air (like a screen).
    • Song: Pretend to sing or tap an imaginary microphone.

    Variations

    Reverse charades: The whole team acts while one person guesses.

    Solo play: One person acts for everyone else playing together.

    Themed rounds: Choose a specific category like “Animals”, “Disney Characters” or “Everyday Tasks”.

  • Superheroes & Villains

    Superheroes & Villains


    Save the Day with Imaginative Play!

    Superhero play gives children a brilliant outlet for big imagination, big energy, and big ideas.

    Whether they’re flying around the garden with capes, rescuing stuffed animals from imaginary danger, or teaming up to defeat a household “villain”, this kind of play builds confidence and cooperation.

    Kids can take on familiar roles like Spider-Man or Wonder Woman, or invent completely new characters with unique powers, costumes, and missions. It’s a fantastic way to explore themes like bravery, helping others, and creative problem-solving—all through play.

    Materials Needed

    • Blankets, tea towels or fabric scraps for capes
    • Paper, card, or masks (store-bought or homemade)
    • Toys to “rescue” or “protect”

    Tools Needed

    • Scissors and crayons (for designing masks or badges)
    • Optional: string, glue, or tape for costume crafting

    Steps

    1. Create a Hero Identity
      Let children choose their superhero name, powers, costume and mission.
    2. Make a Costume
      Use capes, masks, or badges to bring their characters to life. Keep it simple and safe.
    3. Invent a Villain
      Make up a harmless “bad guy” or problem that needs solving—e.g. rescuing a toy from the sofa volcano!
    4. Start the Adventure
      Act out missions, team up with other heroes, and save the day.
    5. Reflect and Celebrate
      Talk about what the heroes achieved. What made them brave? How did they work together?

    Variations

    • Hero Training Camp: Set up obstacle courses or challenges to test each hero’s skills.
    • Villain Role-Swap: Let kids play the villain for a round and flip the story!
    • Super Pet Sidekick: Add soft toy companions to help with missions.
    • Storybook Session: Write or draw comic-style stories based on their hero adventures.
  • Ride a Bike

    Ride a Bike

    Riding a bike is one of childhood’s great milestones—and one of the simplest ways to enjoy fresh air, exercise, and freedom. From balance bikes for toddlers to longer rides for older kids, cycling is a brilliant outdoor activity that grows with your child.

    It builds motor skills, strengthens muscles, boosts confidence, and fosters independence. Whether you’re riding around the block, at the park, or on a trail, it’s also a fantastic way to bond as a family.

    Materials Needed

    • Bike (balance bike, trike, or pedal bike)
    • Helmet
    • Optional: knee/elbow pads, water bottle, high-vis vest

    Tools Needed

    • Bike pump and basic tools (for any quick adjustments)

    Steps

    1. Check the Bike
      Make sure tyres are inflated, brakes work, and the seat height suits your child.
    2. Put on Safety Gear
      Always wear a helmet and check straps are secure.
    3. Pick a Safe Area
      Choose a flat, open space like a park, path, or quiet street.
    4. Start Riding
      Support your child as they practise balance, steering, and braking—take it at their pace.
    5. Celebrate Progress
      Cheer them on! Whether they coasted for two seconds or completed a full lap, every bit counts.

    Variations

    • Obstacle Course: Set up cones or chalk lines to ride around.
    • Bike Parade: Decorate bikes with streamers or signs and go for a mini parade.
    • Destination Ride: Plan a short ride to a favourite spot—like a playground or café.
    • Off-Road Adventure: For older kids, try a forest trail or cycle path for a bit of challenge.
  • Play House

    Play House

    Playing house is one of the most open-ended and engaging forms of make-believe play. Whether kids are pretending to cook dinner, look after babies, or tidy up, they’re copying the world around them and exploring what it means to care for others.

    This kind of role-play supports emotional development, communication, and storytelling, all while helping children make sense of everyday routines. Best of all, no special equipment is needed—just a little imagination and a few familiar objects.

    Materials Needed

    • Toy kitchen, play food, dolls, or soft toys
    • Blankets, cushions, or boxes for building play spaces
    • Optional: real household items (wooden spoons, mixing bowls, baskets)

    Tools Needed

    • None

    Steps

    1. Set the Scene
      Designate a space for your pretend home—use a play kitchen, blanket fort, or simply rearranged furniture.
    2. Assign Roles
      Children can take turns being the grown-up, baby, pet, or even the postie!
    3. Start Playing
      Act out everyday routines like cooking, cleaning, reading stories, or going to work.
    4. Add Conversations
      Encourage dialogue and story-building—“What’s for dinner?” or “Time for nursery!”
    5. Let It Evolve
      Let children steer the play and introduce new ideas as they go.

    Variations

    • Superhero House: What if the parents had superpowers? Mix fantasy with daily life!
    • Pet’s View: Pretend to be the family dog or cat and act out their daily life.
    • Real Task Play: Let kids help with safe household tasks like folding laundry or dusting as part of the game.
    • Outdoor Version: Take pretend house play to the garden with a pop-up tent or cardboard box den.
  • LEGO Challenge

    LEGO Challenge

    LEGO is one of those rare activities that works brilliantly for all ages and can grow with your child.

    A LEGO challenge adds structure to the usual free play and encourages kids to think creatively, solve problems and build their own designs.

    The best part? You don’t need any special sets — just whatever bricks you already have at home.

    These challenges are a great way to gently introduce kids to design thinking, teamwork, and persistence, all while having fun and being creative.

    Materials Needed

    • LEGO bricks or any building blocks
    • Flat building surface

    Tools Needed

    • None

    Steps

    1. Pick a Challenge
      Choose a challenge idea that suits your child’s age and interests (see ideas below).
    2. Set a Timer (Optional)
      If your child enjoys a bit of competition, set a timer for extra fun.
    3. Start Building
      Let your child take the lead, offering support or suggestions if they get stuck.
    4. Show and Tell
      Encourage your child to explain their build — what it is, how it works, and what they’d add next.
    5. Celebrate
      Take a photo of their creation before tidying up, so they can keep a record of what they’ve built!

    LEGO Challenge Ideas

    For Ages 3–5

    • Build a tall tower as high as you can.
    • Make a house for a toy animal or figure.
    • Create a colourful rainbow.
    • Build a simple bridge to fit a car underneath.

    For Ages 6–9

    • Design your own car, boat, or plane.
    • Build a castle or a space station.
    • Make a garden or park scene with trees and flowers.
    • Create a mini zoo or pet shop.

    For Ages 10–12

    • Design a working drawbridge or moving parts.
    • Recreate a famous landmark (e.g. Eiffel Tower, Big Ben).
    • Build a futuristic robot or vehicle.
    • Invent your own board game with LEGO pieces as the game board and counters.

    Variations

    • Blind Build: Give instructions or describe the build without showing a picture.
    • Team Challenge: Work together as a family to build a giant model.
    • Colour Challenge: Build something using only 2 or 3 colours.
    • Limited Bricks: Pick 20 random pieces and see what you can create.

    Safety Tips

    • Keep small pieces out of reach of younger siblings who may still put things in their mouths.
    • Supervise children while building to help avoid stepped-on bricks or accidental spills.
    • Store LEGO safely after play to prevent any unexpected barefoot surprises!
  • Start a Jigsaw Puzzle

    Start a Jigsaw Puzzle

    Starting a jigsaw puzzle is a brilliant way for children to slow down and engage in focused, screen-free play. Whether working solo or as a team, puzzles help develop problem-solving, spatial awareness, patience, and perseverance—all while providing a satisfying sense of progress.

    They’re also wonderfully flexible: you can work on them for 10 minutes or an hour, leave them set up to return to, and choose from themes that suit every age and interest.

    Materials Needed

    • A jigsaw puzzle suitable for your child’s age and skill level
    • Clear, flat surface or puzzle mat

    Tools Needed

    • Optional: sorting trays or containers

    Steps

    1. Choose a Puzzle
      Select a puzzle with an age-appropriate piece count and theme your child finds engaging.
    2. Sort the Pieces
      Flip all pieces picture-side up and sort edges from middle pieces.
    3. Build the Border
      Start with the edge pieces to form the frame of the puzzle.
    4. Work in Sections
      Group similar colours or features and build small sections at a time.
    5. Take Breaks and Enjoy
      Puzzle-solving takes time—pause and return later if needed!

    Variations

    • Puzzle Race: Time how fast you can complete a puzzle, or race with a friend using similar sets.
    • DIY Puzzle: Draw a picture, glue it to card, and cut it into puzzle pieces.
    • Reverse Challenge: Try doing a familiar puzzle without using the picture for reference.
    • Giant Floor Puzzle: For younger kids, try a large-piece puzzle they can assemble on the floor.

  • Draw a map

    Draw a map

    Drawing a map is a fun and imaginative way for children to explore their surroundings or invent their own worlds.

    Whether they’re sketching a treasure map, designing a make-believe island, or mapping out their own bedroom, this activity blends art, storytelling, and observation.

    It also supports spatial awareness, directional language, and planning—all wrapped in a creative task that’s completely customisable.

    Maps can be as simple or detailed as your child likes, and you can even turn them into games later on!

    Materials Needed

    • Plain or coloured paper
    • Pencils, pens, or felt tips
    • Optional: ruler, stickers, tea bags (for ageing pirate maps!)

    Tools Needed

    • None

    Steps

    1. Pick a Theme
      Decide what kind of map you’ll create: your home, your street, a pirate island, or a magical land?
    2. Sketch the Outline
      Draw basic shapes to mark out key locations—rooms, paths, landmarks, or zones.
    3. Add Details
      Label places, draw trees or buildings, and include fun features like monsters, treasure, or secret doors.
    4. Decorate
      Colour in your map, add a compass rose or a border, and age the paper for a vintage look if you like.
    5. Share Your World
      Use the map for storytelling, treasure hunts, or just display it proudly.

    Variations

    • Treasure Hunt Map: Hide an item and mark it on the map with an X—then challenge someone to find it.
    • Fantasy World: Draw a magical kingdom or alien planet complete with landmarks and rules.
    • Real-World Mapping: Take a walk and map your route through the park or local area.
    • Group Map: Work together to build a giant map on a big sheet of paper or multiple joined pages.
  • Make a Bird Feeder

    Make a Bird Feeder

    Making a bird feeder is a lovely craft that connects children with nature right outside their window. Using simple materials—many of which can be found around the house—you can create a homemade feeder that invites birds to stop by for a snack.

    This activity helps kids learn about local bird species, encourages empathy for animals, and promotes sustainability by reusing everyday items. Plus, watching the birds return day after day is its own kind of magic.

    Materials Needed

    • Bird seed mix
    • Natural peanut butter or lard (unsalted)
    • String or twine
    • Feeder base ideas: toilet roll tube, pinecone, empty yoghurt pot, apple core, or orange rind

    Tools Needed

    • Butter knife or spoon
    • Tray or plate for rolling in seed

    Steps

    1. Choose Your Base
      Pick an item like a pinecone, toilet roll, or halved orange rind to build on.
    2. Attach String
      Tie string or twine through or around the feeder to make a loop for hanging.
    3. Add the Fat
      Spread peanut butter or lard all over the surface using a spoon or butter knife.
    4. Coat with Seed
      Roll the sticky base in a tray of bird seed until it’s fully covered.
    5. Hang and Watch
      Choose a quiet spot—like a tree branch or balcony—and hang the feeder up high.

    Variations

    • Apple Ring Feeder: Slice an apple, coat in seed, and hang like a natural doughnut.
    • Recycled Cup Feeder: Fill a yoghurt pot with fat and seed mix, then hang it upside down from a string.
    • Decorate It: Use paper, twigs or stickers (on dry items) to give your feeder character.
    • Birdwatching Log: Keep a simple notebook to record what birds visit each day.
  • Puddle Jumping

    Puddle Jumping

    Puddle jumping is one of those timeless activities that brings out laughter and squeals of joy. All you need is a rainy day, a few good puddles, and a sense of fun. It’s a great way for kids to release energy, explore nature, and enjoy the weather rather than avoiding it.

    As well as being joyful, this simple activity supports gross motor skills, sensory play, and resilience (because it’s okay to get a bit muddy now and then!).

    Materials Needed

    • Waterproof coat
    • Wellies (rubber boots)
    • Waterproof trousers or puddle suit (optional)
    • Towel and dry clothes for afterwards

    Tools Needed

    • None

    Steps

    1. Dress for the Weather
      Make sure everyone is in waterproofs and wellies—you’ll get wet, and that’s the fun of it!
    2. Find Your Puddles
      Head out on a walk, to a park, or even just the pavement and look for puddles of all sizes.
    3. Start Jumping
      Try big splashes, running starts, tiny hops or slow stomps through deeper puddles.
    4. Get Creative
      Make puddle patterns, measure which puddle splashes the highest, or float leaves and sticks like boats.
    5. Warm Up Afterwards
      Once home, change into dry clothes and enjoy a warm drink or bath.

    Variations

    • Puddle Races: Dash from one puddle to the next and see who gets the splashiest.
    • Puddle Photography: Bring a waterproof camera or phone and take artsy photos of reflections and splashes.
    • Sound Game: Close your eyes and listen to the sound each puddle makes when jumped into—it’s different every time!
    • Puddle Art: Dip sticks or leaves in puddles and paint with the water on dry pavement.
  • Play a Card Game

    Play a Card Game

    Card games are a timeless way to entertain children while helping them develop skills like counting, memory, turn-taking, and strategic thinking. Whether you’re playing with a traditional 52-card deck or a themed kids’ game like UNO, there’s something for every age and ability level.

    They’re also incredibly portable—great for travel, restaurants, or holiday downtime. You don’t need a screen or loads of space, just a pack of cards and a willingness to play.

    Games to Play with a Standard Pack of Cards

    Variations

    • DIY Card Games: Let kids make their own set with custom rules or themed characters, e.g. DIY Top Trumps.
    • Team Play: Younger kids can pair up with an older sibling or adult for guidance and fun.
    • Outdoor Version: Bring the game outside for a fresh-air twist (just use a blanket or tray!).
    • Tournament Style: Set up a mini card game championship with score sheets and rounds.

    We’re currently loving Monopoly Bid! It’s a card version of the classic board game and involves bidding on property auctions. It’s easy to pick up and has a good level of randomness, which keeps it competitive across age ranges; I’m regularly beaten by kids!

    Keith

  • Naughts and Crosses

    Naughts and Crosses

    Noughts and Crosses (or Tic-Tac-Toe) is one of those simple, go-anywhere games that can keep kids happily occupied while waiting for food, filling a few quiet minutes, or playing together at home.

    It’s great for practising turn-taking, early strategy and logical thinking — and it only takes a scrap of paper and a pencil to get started.

    Even young children pick it up quickly, while older kids may enjoy working out how to avoid a draw and develop their own game strategies.

    Materials Needed

    • Paper or notebook
    • Pen or pencil

    Tools Needed

    • None

    Steps

    1. Draw the Grid
      Draw a simple 3×3 square grid (two vertical and two horizontal lines).
    2. Choose Symbols
      One player is ‘Noughts’ (O), the other is ‘Crosses’ (X).
    3. Take Turns
      Players take turns writing their symbol in an empty square, trying to get three in a row—horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.
    4. Check for a Win
      The first to get three in a row wins. If all squares are filled without a winner, it’s a draw.
    5. Play Again
      Keep playing and see who can win the most rounds!

    Variations

    • Giant Outdoor Version: Use chalk on the pavement or tape on the floor for a life-sized version.
    • 4×4 Grid: Add an extra row and column to make it trickier.
    • Theme It: Use stickers, magnets, or drawings instead of Xs and Os — e.g. hearts vs stars.
    • Speed Round: Play against the clock for a fast-paced version.