As a parent, some of the cringiest phrases that come out of our kids’ mouths are “I’m bored” or “There’s nothing to do.” The even better part? These typically happen right after the holidays or while they’re staring at a giant pile of toys in their room. Use this list of things to do with kids for a boost of ideas to pick up everyone’s mood.
With a little creativity and push for activity, there is always “something” to be done that you and the kids will enjoy.
This list of ideas will have them thinking you’re the “cool mom” who likes to get out and do fun stuff.
Fun Things To Do With The Kids
Most of these items can be done all year long, but there are a few that are seasonal. Don’t forget to check the local activities in your town as well for even more great ideas.
Winter Activities For Kids
- Go sledding
- Build a snowman
- Have a snowball fight
- Drink hot chocolate until your stomach hurts
- Binge on Hallmark movies
- Bake and decorate cookies
- Have family game nights
- Put up the Christmas treel
- Drive around to see all the holiday lights
- Plan a visit to see Santa
Spring Activities For Kids
- Plant a garden
- Create a flower bed
- Decorate the driveway with sidewalk chalk
- Train to run a 5K together
- Take an art class
- Go hiking
- Pick and give flowers to neighbors
- Have a family bike ride
- Fly a kite
- Go rollerblading
- Teach your child how to mow the yard
Summer Activities For Kids
- Have a lemonade stand
- Go on a picnic
- Explore the museums in town
- Go swimming
- Take a family vacation
- Have a staycation at home
- Go camping
- Visit the local library
- Paint and hide rocks around town
- Get involved in a local theater
- Plan a visit to family
- Have a water balloon fight
Fall Activities For Kids
- Visit a pumpkin patch
- Pick apples at an apple orchard
- Go on a hayride
- Have a weenie roast
- Decorate the house with fall decor
- Rake leaves
- Roast marshmallows
- Make epic s’mores
- Go on a corn maze adventure
- Attend a football game
And those are just a few simple ideas. Having a good balance of indoor and outdoor activities for the kids is key.
Movie nights are great but plan one after spending the afternoon hiking in the woods.
Wanting a night of making s’mores and telling jokes around the fire? Sounds perfect but do so after spending some time outdoors working in the garden.
It’s totally possible to have your kids help out around the house, move their bodies, AND find a great balance of having fun at the same time.
More Fun Ways To Bond With Your Kids
Even if you can’t find the time to plan activities every weekend or throughout the week, there are other ideas that can work.
Create a fun game night or game day where you can just sit and play together. Your kids will love that you’re interested in something they’re interested in.
Also, don’t forget that showing your child love and acceptance is key! Some days, just waking up and snuggling or eating donuts on the couch might be what they need. Be open and accepting and patient, too.