Activity ideas for children aged 5 to 12
When your children are at home, it can be hard to find things to keep them entertained, especially during the school holidays. Try out a mix of things to engage their brains, burn some energy and make them smile. Having fun together with your child will also help build connection and communication between you.
Arts and crafts
Creative projects help children express themselves, improve focus, and build confidence as they experiment with new ideas and techniques.
Foot painting
Lay out a long sheet of paper and put paper plates with paint at one end, with a towel and bowl of water at the other. Let your child walk through the paint and create colourful footprints. It’s best to do this outside or somewhere with an easy‑wipe surface.
Make a book
Create a picture book using cut‑outs from magazines and newspapers. Older children can make up and illustrate their own story, then share it with the family.
Lego challenge
Set a challenge to build a rocket, car or castle as quickly as possible. Older children can sketch designs beforehand, then take turns choosing which one to build together.
Rock decorating
Collect rocks and stones to turn into a creative project or decorative ornaments.
Make learning fun
These activities encourage curiosity and problem‑solving, helping children build independence and discover new interests as they learn through play.
Make a time capsule
Fill a time capsule with letters, photos and small items, then bury it in the garden or store it somewhere safe. It’s a fun way to capture memories and look back on them in the future.
Create a word search
Write a word search themed around your child’s hobbies. It’s a simple way to practise spelling and pattern‑spotting skills.
Put on a play
Choose a favourite book and turn it into a play. Write a script, choose characters and act it out together.
Science day
Set up your own science day at home and try simple, safe experiments. It’s a great way to spark curiosity and hands‑on learning.
Learn a language
Try learning new words or phrases in another language using short online lessons or apps. BBC Bitesize has short language lessons and other subjects.
Family tree project
Look through family photos and help your child create their own family tree album.
Stargazing
Wrap up warm and look at the night sky together. Try spotting constellations and planets on a clear night. he Sky at Night website has simple guides to stargazing.
Fun and games
Games like these help children develop social skills, practise teamwork and communication, and enjoy time together as a family.
Design a board game
Create and decorate your own board game to play as a family.
Card games
Play card games like Uno, Snap or Top Trumps. They’re fun and can help build maths and language skills.
Hide and seek
Play hide and seek indoors or outdoors. It’s a simple game the whole family can enjoy together.
Play a computer game together
Join your child in a computer game they enjoy. It shows interest in their hobbies and helps you understand how and what they play.
Get moving
More active or fast‑paced activities help children burn energy, build resilience and coordination, and enjoy a sense of challenge and excitement.
Karaoke and dance‑off
Have a karaoke competition or a dance‑off. A karaoke app can help you get started.
Family sports day
Organise a family sports day with a mini racetrack, egg‑and‑spoon race or cushion hurdles. Read our family sports day ideas.
Fun with food
Getting involved with food boosts independence, encourages healthy habits, and gives children a chance to explore new tastes and skills.
Help with dinner
Get your child involved in making dinner. They can choose the menu, help prepare ingredients or set the table.
Food tasting session
Set up a tasting session to encourage them to try new foods. This can be especially helpful if your child is a fussy eater.
Down time
Quiet, calming activities give children space to unwind, recharge, and look after their wellbeing after a busy day.
Spa day
Have a spa day to take care of yourself and each other. Use washing up bowls for a foot soak and give each other pedicures. You can make home-made scrubs and face masks from olive oil, sugar and honey.
Home cinema
Turn your home into a cosy cinema. Make the room dark, offer blankets, and let your child choose an age‑appropriate film.
Page last reviewed: March 2026
Next review due: March 2029
This advice was written by our experienced Parent Talk coaches. Parent Talk is a free online service for parents and carers, provided by the charity Action for Children. For more advice, message our parenting coaches with our online chat.
