I’ve had to get creative to keep my older kids active and engaged indoors, but toddlers are a whole different challenge! At this stage, toddlers are experiencing incredible growth, from saying their first words to potty training. They’re too big for playpens but not quite ready to roam freely.
Whether you’re homeschooling, cooking dinner, or just need a break, finding safe activities to keep your toddler busy is essential. These simple activities can help keep them entertained without resorting to screens.
Giving toddlers activities to focus their energy benefits them too. Here are some of my favorite screen-free activities for busy toddlers that don’t require many extra toys. Most of these activities use materials you likely already have at home.
One simple activity involves filling a bucket or dishpan with water. Place a towel on the floor, add some bubble bath, small toys, or measuring cups, and let your toddler play. If you’re worried about spills, put down a tarp or do this outside if the weather is nice.
Toddlers love using tools they see adults use. Depending on their age, give them construction paper and a hole punch or safety scissors to make confetti. Tweezers and tongs are also fun. Use toddler-friendly tweezers and let them pick up small items like beads or dried beans.
For digging fun, fill a bowl with rice, dried beans, or play sand. Bury toys for your toddler to find and give them a paintbrush and spoon to “excavate.” You can even add lavender essential oil for a calming effect.
Create a sensory bottle by filling a plastic bottle halfway with rice and adding glitter, beads, and small toys. Seal it with hot glue, and let your toddler explore without the mess.
Anything slightly raised can be a balance beam for a toddler. A 2×4 wood board works well, but be creative with what you have. This activity is great outdoors but can be adapted for indoors too.
Homemade playdough is easy to make and loved by kids. Use natural dyes or a gluten-free recipe if needed. Set it up with cookie cutters and safe kitchen tools for your toddler to enjoy.
Sometimes, I make edible “finger paint” with Greek yogurt and natural food dye. It’s a fun, safe way for toddlers to play with their food.
Bubble wrap can be a fun surprise for a rainy day. Tape it to the floor and let your kids jump on it. It’s a great way to turn a boring day around.
Mylar balloons can be surprisingly entertaining for toddlers. They love pulling them around the house, and even non-helium balloons can be fun with supervision.
Creating an obstacle course is another great way to burn energy. Use old tires outside or soft items like pillows and cushions indoors. A homemade course can be changed often to keep it exciting.
For an easy indoor basketball game, crumple up newspaper into balls and have your toddler try to toss them into a bucket. Count how many make it in and how many don’t. Older siblings might want to join in too!
These activities have helped me keep my toddlers entertained, but it’s always a challenge. The goal is to keep them busy and lay the foundation for an active childhood. Here’s to happy exploring for our kids and a few moments of peace for us! If you have any sanity-saving ideas, please share them in the comments!
