10 Indoor Activities for Kids

I'm guilty. When I’m too overwhelmed, tired or busy to keep the kids occupied, I let them watch TV, play video games or be on a tablet. Sometimes that's OK, but I don’t want them plugged in all day! Here are ideas to keep kids happy indoors when it’s too cold, too hot or it just doesn't work to send them outside.

1. HAVE A PICNIC OR TEA PARTY IN THE LIVING ROOM

   Grab a blanket for the floor (makes it seem like a real picnic plus it protects the carpet). If you have a play tea set, that would work perfectly. If not, just use small cups and plates. We like to have peanut butter and jelly sandwiches that we cut into small pieces or make chocolate chip cookies just for the tea party. You could have a picnic for lunch or dinner and do a tea party on the same day!
   
   
   

2. BUILD A FORT OR SET UP AN INDOOR TENT

   Fort-building is a blast! Find some parent-approved sheets and blankets and start scouting out the perfect spot. Drape sheets over a large table for a simple fort or get crazy using chairs, other furniture, couch cushions and more. For easier clean-up, of course, the indoor tent is a good choice and is just as much fun. The kids feel hidden and cozy and may even want to sleep in there for naptime or bedtime.
   
   

3. DRAW PICTURES, CREATE CRAFTS, WRITE OR TELL STORIES

   This is the perfect time to drag out the craft box full of pipe cleaners, Popsicle sticks, markers, glitter, glue and more. Older kids might want to make up their own story, illustrate it and—voilà— they have their very own book! Get lots of craft project ideas HERE.
   
   

4. WRITE A PLAY TO ACT OUT OR HAVE A TALENT SHOW

   The kids might like to write a play manuscript of their own creation or something mimicking a movie. They’ll have fun coming up with costumes and props and running their lines. They can open up the box office to “sell” tickets, set up a theater and put on their play for parents to record.
   
   
   

5. THROW A DANCE PARTY

   Sometimes it’s just fun to turn on music and get goofy. Dance around the house to new songs or use your favorite tunes. Better yet, challenge the family in a dance competition.
   
   

6. PLAY STORE

   Have the kids make play money or buy some at a dollar store. Each child can make their own store and take turns buying items from each other. Items can include toys they no longer want, trading cards, pictures they have drawn—anything.
   
   

7. CREATE A CARDBOARD BOX VILLAGE

   Grab a bunch boxes and you have an afternoon of entertainment for the kids. They can decorate the boxes however they like and set them up as homes, stores, a clubhouse. Let their imaginations run wild!
   
   

8. PLAY HIDE-AND-SEEK

   Simple, but it always works. Kids love hide-and-seek and can play one-on-one or in teams. There’s also reverse hide-and-seek (sardines), where one person hides and everybody else looks for him.
   
   
   

9. BAKE AWAY BOREDOM

   Whip up a batch of sugar cookies and the kids will come running! Cut the dough out in various shapes, bake, then let the kids frost and decorate their own creations.
   
   

10. PLAY SCHOOL

    A classic activity that kids love. They take turns playing teacher and giving assignments using old worksheets, workbooks or activity and coloring pages.
    
    

If all else fails, pull up an exercise video on YouTube and attempt to work out with the kids. They will get a good laugh and you all might get some exercise.

Kerrie McLoughlin is a freelance writer.