Need some fast inspiration to keep the kids busy without spending a cent? Here are 5 super quick ideas for free activities for kids — perfect for a rainy afternoon, a quiet Sunday, or those “I’m bored” moments when you need something fun to hand.
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If you’re looking for something that won’t cost much to do with your child, here are five simple but quick ideas that are fun and practically free.
You may also enjoy 100 Fab Ideas For Free Activities For Kids
Super Quick Ideas for Free Activities for Kids
#1. Portrait Gallery
Take it in turns to draw each other’s portraits, then set up a portrait gallery to view them all.
Or take a huge piece of paper and draw around each other, then have fun colouring and drawing in your features and clothes.
If you don’t have a large piece of paper, just draw around your hands and paint them, adding nails and fun jewellery like rings and bracelets.
You might also enjoy 50 Brilliant Ideas for Art & Crafts for Kids
#2. Secret Spy Codes
Become secret spies for the day. Use a secret code and take it in turns to write messages to each other that need to be deciphered. One easy code to try is called Pigpen — it’s really simple to learn.
You can also make your own alphabet number code by writing down numbers with mixed-up letters, e.g. 1=Y, 2=B, 3=F and so on. This becomes your decoder sheet. Write a message using the numbers, hand it over with the decoder sheet, and let the other person work out what you wrote.
Or how about trying writing in invisible ink or in an ancient alphabet called Ogham?
Here are some fun Science Experiments to try at home too.
#3. Masterchef
Have a Masterchef competition and get creative in the kitchen making something delicious like smoothies, pizza or cookies. Or pick a recipe you’ve never tried before and give it a go. Your child might even be persuaded to make dinner for the whole family!
You might also enjoy making ice pops or ice cream — though you’ll have to wait until they’re frozen!
You may also enjoy 101 Activities for Kids that Don’t Involve Screen Time
#4. Make Up Magic
Get out some make-up or face paints and have fun making each other up.
Or try some fun art on your hands — a lovely hand drawing, or hands painted with smiley faces, can keep everyone entertained for ages.
#5. Mystery Hunt
Everybody loves a mystery hunt, whether it’s hunting for treasure or a scavenger hunt — and these work just as well indoors as out.
We have a free downloadable Mystery Hunt sheet you can use — it’s a cross between a treasure hunt and an activity sheet!
You might also enjoy an Alphabet Hunt or try your hand at geocaching.
More Free Activity Ideas
If you need even more inspiration for free activities for your child, check out:
- 100 Ideas for Free Activities for Kids
- 4 More Free Things to do With Kids
- 50 Fantastic Free Things to do with Kids Aged 8-12
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s a quick free activity I can set up right now with things I already have?
A portrait or hand-tracing session is one of the fastest — all you need is paper and pens or paint, and it can be set up in minutes.
Are these ideas suitable for a rainy day indoors?
Yes — all five ideas work well indoors and need no special equipment, making them a handy go-to whenever the weather keeps you inside.
What age are these activities suitable for?
Most of these ideas can be adapted for a wide age range, from younger children who enjoy simple drawing and hunts to older kids who’ll enjoy the secret codes and cooking challenges.
Do I need to buy anything special to try these?
No — each idea uses everyday items like paper, pens, kitchen ingredients, or things already found around the house.
Related Articles
- 100 Fab Ideas For Free Activities For Kids
- 50 Fantastic Free Things to do with Kids Aged 8-12
- 101 Activities for Kids that Don’t Involve Screen Time
Have your say! Any other ideas for free activities for kids? Tell us in the comments below.
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