Are you bracing yourself for the inevitable winter blues? For many of us, it’s not the cold that’s the problem, but rather the phrase that’s sure to become a familiar refrain: ‘Mom, I’m so boooored!’ While it’s natural to feel frustrated when hearing those words repeated ad nauseam, there is hope. In this post, we’ll explore some of the internet’s best DIY boredom busters that are not only fun for kids but also easy on the nerves and home décor. And who knows?
You might just find yourself having a blast alongside your little ones!
Fun DIY Indoor Activities for Kids
To alleviate the monotony that can creep into our daily routines, I’ve identified a few strategies to help you shake things up and bring some excitement back into your living space.
Ball Pit and Slide
For younger children, an inflatable ball pit or pool can bring endless entertainment. Simply fill the space with balls and add a kid-friendly slide for endless hours of climbing and sliding fun. The thrill of scaling the slide’s height and then swooping down its length is sure to captivate their imagination. This activity is perfect for sparking creativity and encouraging physical play, all while having a blast!
Pom Pom Sorting
This simple yet engaging activity not only enhances fine motor skills in children, but also presents an opportunity for adults to relax and unwind. As I read through the instructions, I couldn’t help but envision myself participating alongside my little ones. The concept is straightforward: using a clothespin, kids move pom-poms into corresponding cups based on the color of small balls. This sorting mechanism resonates with me, making it an activity that appears enjoyable even for adults.
The potential to create this DIY indoor activity for kids warrants exploration.
Crayon Push Activity
Developing fine motor skills is a crucial part of your child’s learning journey, and this simple yet engaging activity is perfect for helping them get there. All you need is an empty oatmeal container and some crayons. The process of punching holes in the container to create a makeshift crayon holder may seem tedious, but trust us, it’s worth the effort.
Not only will your child be honing their fine motor skills as they slide the crayons through the holes, but they’ll also be creating something fun and colorful to display. So why not give it a try and see what creative masterpieces your little one comes up with? This activity is a great way to encourage creativity and imagination while keeping things simple and easy to set up.
Stain Glass Window
A unique and engaging project that can captivate kids of all ages is to create a colorful mosaic artwork. Although the original tutorial post is no longer accessible, the basic concept remains fascinating. As depicted in the image, the process involves hanging up a sheet of plastic and then cutting out square pieces of tissue paper.
This fun activity allows children to exercise their creativity by gluing or taping the squares onto the plastic surface, ultimately producing a remarkable work of art.
Racing Pom Pom Balls
As a parent of three rambunctious boys, I’ve found that fostering their natural competitiveness can be an effective way to encourage fun and engagement. One simple yet entertaining activity that brings out their competitive streak is setting up a mini obstacle course using tape on the floor. To add an element of excitement, we incorporate pom-pom balls and straws, allowing them to blow the balls around the track.
This DIY kids’ indoor activity has proven to be a hit with my little ones, and I’m confident it will bring joy to your family as well.
Target Golf
Crafting an engaging game for kids has never been simpler! By repurposing a cardboard box, you can create a unique golf-themed challenge that’s perfect for indoor play. Start by cutting entry holes of varying sizes and numbering each one to track scores. Next, let your little ones take turns hitting a golf ball into one of the holes. The player with the highest score at the end wins!
This DIY kids’ indoor activity is an excellent way to encourage physical activity, strategic thinking, and friendly competition all within the comfort of your own home.
Indoor S’mores
Indoor S’mores are a game-changer when you’re looking for a quick and exciting snack solution that’ll delight both kids and adults. While we’ll dive deeper into the details later, here’s a sneak peek: creating an indoor S’mores experience is surprisingly easy. So, if your little ones are in need of a pick-me-up or you want to spice up family time, this idea is sure to become a new favorite.
Originally designed as an at-home date night concept, it also lends itself beautifully to a fun activity with kids.
Easy Indoor Swing and Crash Pad
It’s not uncommon for boys to have a knack for chaos, and my household is no exception. When my children get riled up, it can be quite the spectacle! In moments like these, finding activities that let them let loose without causing harm or destruction becomes a top priority. I recently stumbled upon an idea that has all three of my little ones absolutely enthralled – hanging from the ceiling and crashing into things without putting themselves or our home at risk.
The thrill of it all is simply irresistible to them! I’m thrilled to share this DIY kids’ indoor activity with you, in hopes that it might bring a similar sense of joy and release to your own family.
Pool Noodle Playhouse
As summer’s end approaches, savvy shoppers can capitalize on the annual pool noodle clearance sale. Stock up while you can! Once home, unleash your creativity to build an imaginative playhouse using humble materials like pool noodles and bed sheets. This stress-free DIY project promises a win-win: hours of joyful entertainment for kids, accompanied by a peaceful oasis for parents.
Indoor Camping
Transform your living space into a cozy campsite by setting up a tent in your home’s common area. Create a mock campfire using candles, fairy lights, or even a fireplace (if you’re lucky enough to have one). Then, bring out the star of the show – your previously prepared indoor S’mores kit. As the kids gather around the ‘campfire’ and indulge in their own S’mores creations, you’ll be creating memories that will last long after the flames go out.
Indoor Climbing Space
Imagine a space where kids can unleash their boundless energy without worrying about the constraints of outdoor play. That’s exactly what this ingenious idea offers – an indoor gym that’s perfect for little ones with plenty of vigor. The setup includes a climbing structure, a rock climbing wall, and a jungle gym, providing endless opportunities for physical activity and exploration.
And to ensure safety, the bed is cleverly positioned beneath the structure, so even if they take a tumble, there’s a soft landing in store. It’s a fantastic solution that’s sure to delight both kids and parents alike!
Cardboard Box Coloring
For younger children, transforming a common household item into an interactive play space can be a game-changer. I recall when my own little ones were going through the inevitable ‘coloring on the wall’ phase. It’s a rite of passage, really. But, what if you could redirect their creative energy into a contained and controlled environment? Simply place your child within a cardboard box, armed with a crayon or marker, and let them express themselves until they’re thoroughly satisfied.
The end result is not only a clean and damage-free space but also a delighted child, encouraged to explore and create.
Drive-In Movie
We recently transformed a regular end-of-summer gathering at our church into an unforgettable experience for the kids. The excitement was palpable as we turned cardboard boxes into makeshift cars, allowing the young ones to enjoy their popcorn and movie time with an added layer of thrill.
DIY Indoor Climbing Wall
Looking for ways to keep your kiddos active and energized during the cold winter months? One great solution is to create an indoor play space that encourages physical activity and imagination. Consider setting up a climbing area in a room where kids can let their inner adventurer shine. This DIY project is a fantastic way to provide your little ones with a fun and engaging outlet for their boundless energy, even when the weather outside is chilly.
Cotton Ball Painting
Elevate your painting experience for both kids and parents by introducing a simple yet effective hack: attaching cotton balls to clothespins! This ingenious trick not only makes painting more enjoyable but also streamlines cleanup efforts. Simply dip the cotton-covered clothespin in paint, allowing the kiddos to unleash their creativity, and when it’s time to tidy up, simply dispose of the used cotton balls – no mess left behind!
Pillow Sumo
I was hesitant to share this fun indoor game because my boys’ exuberance can sometimes get the better of them – I’ve seen them crash into furniture in their enthusiasm for play. If you have children who are more mindful of their surroundings and boundaries, then this activity might be a great way to keep them entertained on a chilly winter day.
However, if your little ones are like mine, with boundless energy and an unpredictable sense of spatial awareness, you may want to consider alternative options.
Paper Plate Tic-Tac-Toe
Transforming classic games into fun-filled experiences for kids has never been more exciting! Who else loves reliving childhood memories through beloved board games like tic-tac-toe and checkers? I’m thrilled to share that making these games a reality is surprisingly simple and budget-friendly. The magic happens by outlining the game board with tape and crafting your own pieces using paper plates – talk about an effortless way to spark creativity and imagination!
Try it out for yourself and discover the joy of bringing these timeless classics to life in the comfort of your own home.
Balloon Stamp Painting
Winter is an excellent time to get creative with your little ones, and what’s more delightful than exploring innovative arts and crafts ideas that won’t break the bank or create a huge mess? This engaging project is an absolute gem for families looking for fun and budget-friendly activities. Give it some thought if you’re seeking new ways to spend quality time with your kids indoors this winter.
Balloon Tennis
This entertaining game is all about blowing up balloons and using a trusty fly swatter to prevent them from making an untimely exit onto the floor. But before you start, make sure you’ve got sufficient space to play without worrying about any accidental furniture flips or chaos ensuing. A little planning ahead can go a long way in ensuring everyone has a blast – literally!
Paper Airplanes
Creating a flawless airplane model is a challenge many of us would love to conquer. As someone who teaches a Sunday class, I’ve witnessed firsthand the determination and enthusiasm of young students eager to produce a perfect plane. However, it’s not just the boys who are driven by this goal – there’s one remarkable little girl in my class who can craft an airplane in mere seconds, defying expectations with her speed and skill.
This DIY activity is indeed accessible and enjoyable for children of all ages and abilities.
DIY Moon Sand
It’s only natural for kids to crave hands-on experiences. They thrive when they can physically interact with materials and objects to deepen their understanding and learning process. As a result, I make it a point to foster creativity in our home by incorporating activities that allow them to get messy, like this DIY moon sand project. Not only does it provide an outlet for their natural curiosity, but it also encourages problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Kid Made Instruments
For families who share a passion for music, this project offers an exciting opportunity for creative expression. As a parent of boys who are thoroughly enthralled by the world of music, I’ve witnessed firsthand the joy that comes from engaging in musical activities. And with this DIY tutorial, your little ones can bring their love of music to life by crafting their very own drum set and kazoo.
Whether you’re looking for a fun indoor activity or seeking ways to nurture your child’s creativity, this project is sure to strike a chord.
Borax Free Galaxy Slime
While my kids have thoroughly enjoyed making homemade slime in the past, what truly sets this particular recipe apart is its clever omission of Borax. As a parent, I appreciate the effort to minimize exposure to chemicals whenever possible. In fact, I must admit that I’ve grown quite fond of playing with and observing this unique substance alongside my little ones.
Tin Can Bowling
If your little one is a bowling enthusiast, you don’t need to brave the elements or worry about noise restrictions at an outdoor alley. With a few simple supplies and some creativity, you can bring the fun indoors.
Transform old tin cans into makeshift pins and grab a ball for an impromptu game that’s perfect for a cozy afternoon or rainy day. The best part? You can set it up in your own home, eliminating the need to leave.
Get inspired with this easy DIY indoor activity that’s sure to delight kids of all ages!
Tissue Transfer Art
As the chill of winter sets in, there’s no need to let creativity freeze over. Engage your little ones in a fun and exciting art project that’s perfect for cold winter days spent indoors. And the best part? These crafts make for thoughtful and unique Christmas gifts for grandparents – a win-win!
DIY Ring Toss
Transforming everyday items into a fun game is as simple as creating a ring toss game for kids. To get started, gather an old paper towel tube and some used paper plates. Cut the center out of each plate to create the rings that will be tossed around the tube. Don’t forget to add some creative flair with decorations before putting your homemade game together. With just a few simple materials, you can turn a waste item into a fun indoor activity for kids.
Knock the Balls Nerf Game
Get ready for an action-packed game that combines creativity and play! To set it up, gather a cardboard box as the foundation and some old paper towel tubes. Next, use these tubes to create ‘targets’ to hold balls worth a certain number of points. The goal is to hit these targets using your trusty Nerf gun. With its unique blend of problem-solving and playful competition, this DIY game is sure to delight kids – and parents alike. Check out more fun indoor activities for kids!
Air Dry Clay
The allure of working with clay lies not just in its tactile appeal or the impressive creations that can be crafted from it, but also in its accessibility and the joy it brings to children. With its easy-to-follow process and minimal requirements, this activity is an excellent way to engage young minds while fostering a sense of accomplishment. So, take the leap and explore the world of clay-making with your kids – you won’t be disappointed!
Marble Run
Imagine unleashing hours of entertainment for your little ones by transforming a humble cardboard box into an interactive marble run. The setup is delightfully straightforward: simply create a few homemade obstacles using everyday materials, then let the marbles roll down the box’s incline, guiding them through twists and turns. This engaging activity provides endless fun for kids, making it an excellent indoor play solution.
Ball Toss
If you’re a fan of classic games like ski ball, you’ll love the simplicity and fun of this easy-to-make bin game. The premise is straightforward: assign point values to various bins and then challenge yourself or others to toss balls into the bins, racking up points along the way. With minimal setup required, this indoor activity is perfect for kids (and adults!) looking for a quick and engaging way to spend quality time together.
DIY Laser Maze
Create a fun and interactive obstacle course in your hallway using crepe paper. Simply tape the crepe paper into various forms, making sure it’s challenging enough for your little ones to navigate through. Then, let them run wild, trying not to touch or break the delicate material as they weave their way over and under the maze. This DIY activity is perfect for kids’ indoor playtime.
2-Ingredient Play Dough
Do your little ones enjoy molding and shaping play dough? My youngest has a passion for it, and I’m not alone – many kids adore this tactile activity. However, the commercial options can be costly and lacking in transparency regarding their ingredients. That’s why making your own natural play dough at home is an excellent solution to both concerns.
Not only will you save money by avoiding store-bought options, but you’ll also have greater control over the ingredients that go into your DIY creation. Plus, it’s a fun and engaging activity that can be enjoyed with your children, promoting quality time and bonding.
In fact, we’ve curated over 30 delightful DIY kids’ indoor activities that are sure to captivate their imagination and bring joy to your winter days.
But we’d love to hear from you – what creative endeavors do you use to keep your little ones entertained during the colder months? Do you have a favorite DIY activity or recipe you’d like to share with our community?
