Fun things to do with small children

Some times as a parent, I can get stuck in a rut and do the same thing all the time. With nice weather quickly approaching, I thought I would make myself a list of fun things that I could do with my children and share the list with you. Spoiler alert: some activities listed are better suited for the indoors.

Most of the activities are free or only cost a minimal amount of money. This list is also a bit heavy on things boys would enjoy. (Give me a year or two and I will be able to add more girl activities to the list.) So without further ado…

25 ways to have fun with small children without spending a lot of money

  1. Blow bubbles
  2. Read books
  3. Go for a bike ride (or let them ride and you walk)
  4. Snuggle
  5. Go to the park
  6. Have a picnic
  7. Go on a hike
  8. Go fishing
  9. Go to the library
  10. Visit an airplane, train or bus station, etc. and watch the action
  11. Go swimming
  12. Go for a nature walk
  13. Do a scavenger hunt
  14. Attend an event at your local museum
  15. Watch a parade
  16. Build something together, using Legos, Lincoln Logs, cardboard boxes, milk jugs, wood, etc.
  17. Color
  18. Do yard work
  19. Help a grandparent or neighbor
  20. Visit a farm
  21. Play dress up
  22. Build a blanket fort
  23. Play hide-and-seek
  24. Cook simple foods
  25. Play a game

Have an idea to add to this list? I’d love to hear it. If you share your ideas, please know in advance that I approve all comments before they are posted. This is to avoid spam comments, which I do receive and we all hate. I approve comments as quickly as my email delivers them to me.