20+ Creative Activities for Big Kids to Beat Boredom

Crafting is a timeless way to keep kids engaged. They can:

• Make friendship bracelets: Simple kits are available online, or you can use yarn and beads.
• Create custom tote bags: Fabric paint and plain bags are all you need.
• Paint rocks: These can turn into decorations or gifts.

Why I love it: Crafting builds creativity and fine motor skills. Plus, it’s screen-free!

2. Scavenger Hunts

A scavenger hunt is a creative boredom buster for big kids. Write clues and hide small treasures around the house or yard. You could also organize themed scavenger hunts for different holidays.

Pro tip: Scavenger hunts encourage problem-solving and teamwork.

3. Indoor Games for Kids

Rainy day? No problem! Try these:

• Board games: Classics like Monopoly or newer ones like Codenames.
• Card games: Uno or Go Fish are simple and fun.
• Charades: Act out movies, books, or animals for some laughs.

What I’ve noticed: These games are great for family bonding and social skills.

4. Outdoor Adventures for Kids

Fresh air and exercise go a long way! Some ideas:

• Bike rides: Explore local trails or parks.
• Nature walks: Give them a checklist of things to spot, like birds or flowers.
• Backyard camping: Set up a tent and enjoy stargazing.

Why it works: Outdoor play boosts mood and helps burn energy.

5. Cooking or Baking

Let your kids be mini-chefs! Start with easy recipes like:

• Pizza making: Use pre-made dough and let them choose toppings.
• Cookies: Teach them to measure ingredients and follow instructions.
• Smoothies: Experiment with fruits and flavours.

What I like about this: It’s a life skill and an opportunity to bond.

6. Science Experiments

Turn boredom into discovery with educational games for kids like:

• Making a volcano with baking soda and vinegar.
• Creating slime with glue and borax.
• Building a simple circuit with a battery and LED light.

Why kids love it: Science feels like magic, and they learn without realizing it.

7. Building Forts

Blankets, pillows, and imagination, that’s all they need! Encourage them to:

• Create cozy reading nooks.
• Add string lights for a magical touch.
• Build multiple rooms in their fort.

Note: This is great for independent play and creative thinking.

8. Learn a New Skill

Big kids are at the perfect age to pick up hobbies like:

• Playing a musical instrument: Guitar, keyboard, or ukulele.
• Knitting or sewing: Many easy tutorials are available online.
• Coding: Websites like Scratch make it fun and easy.

My experience: Learning new skills keeps kids motivated and confident.

9. Arts and Crafts for Kids

Beyond simple crafts, older kids can try:

• Canvas painting: Let them create artwork for their room.
• Tie-dye shirts: A classic summer activity.
• DIY scrapbooks: They can collect memories and photos.

Why it matters: It encourages creative expression and builds focus.

10. Puzzles and Challenges

Challenge their minds with:

• Jigsaw puzzles: Choose one with a theme they love.
• Crossword puzzles: Great for building vocabulary.
• Escape room kits: Fun for the whole family.

Why it’s important: Puzzles provide mental stimulation and teach patience.

11. Dance Parties

Turn up the music and let them dance it out! You can:

• Host a mini dance-off with siblings.
• Create TikTok-inspired routines.
• Use apps like Just Dance for structured moves.

Why I enjoy this: It’s energetic and improves their mood instantly.

12. Treasure Box Making

Provide an old box, paint, stickers, and glitter. Kids can create their own treasure chest to store keepsakes.

Note: This activity combines crafting and personal growth.

13. Virtual Tours

Explore the world from home with virtual tours! Check out:

• The Louvre Museum.
• NASA’s virtual space center.
• Zoos and aquariums.

Why it works: These are educational experiences that also spark curiosity.

14. Photography Fun

Give them a camera or a smartphone and let them explore:

• Nature photography.
• Portraits of family and pets.
• Creative photo editing.

Pro tip: Photography encourages observation and creative exploration.

15. Gardening

Gardening is calming and rewarding. Kids can:

• Plant flowers or herbs in pots.
• Design their own fairy garden.
• Create a vegetable patch.

Why I like it: Gardening teaches responsibility and patience.

16. DIY Board Games

Encourage kids to invent their own board game. Let them:

• Design a game board.
• Create unique rules.
• Test it with family.

Why it’s valuable: It fosters imagination and logical thinking.

17. Screen-Free Activities for Kids

Limit screen time with options like:

• Reading books or comics.
• Writing short stories or poems.
• Playing classic games like hide-and-seek.

Why it’s important: Technology-free play enhances creativity and focus.

18. Group Activities for Big Kids

If they have friends over, try:

• Relay races in the backyard.
• Group karaoke sessions.
• A themed movie marathon.

Why kids love it: These are fun family activities that also build social skills.

19. STEM Activities

Introduce them to hands-on STEM projects:

• Build a LEGO robot.
• Create a balloon-powered car.
• Try coding challenges on free apps.

Why I recommend this: STEM activities boost problem-solving skills.

20. Weekend Adventures

Make weekends special with:

• A day at the local zoo or science center.
• Mini golf or bowling trips.
• A treasure hunt in a nearby park.

What I’ve seen: These adventures strengthen family bonds and keep kids active.

21. Writing Journals or Stories

Give them a journal to:

• Write about their day.
• Create short stories or poetry.
• Illustrate their thoughts with drawings.

Why it’s great: Writing enhances imagination and emotional expression.

22. Family Game Night

Pick age-appropriate games and make it a tradition! Try:

• Trivia games for older kids.
• Word-building games like Scrabble.
• Strategy games like Risk.

Why it works: It’s a screen-free way to enjoy quality time.

23. Adventure Ideas for Pre-Teens

For more active kids, plan:

• Obstacle courses in the backyard.
• Treasure hunts with maps.
• DIY sports tournaments.

Pro tip: Physical challenges keep their bodies and minds engaged.

24. Life Skills Practice

Older kids can learn:

• Basic cooking or baking.
• How to do the laundry?
• Organizing and budgeting.

Why it’s essential: These skills prepare them for independence.

25. Interactive Workshops

Sign them up for workshops like:

• Art or pottery classes.
• Martial arts or dance lessons.
• Online coding or photography courses.

Why I like this: These are excellent for personal development.

 FAQs about activities for big kids

1. How do I engage 12-year-olds?
Give them choices! Twenties love activities like coding, writing, and group games. Focus on their interests and independence.

2. What activities can 9-year-olds do?
Nine-year-olds love creative tasks like crafting, cooking, or treasure hunts. They also enjoy team games and outdoor fun.

3. How can I have fun with older kids?
Join them in group activities like board games, sports, or cooking. Spending time together builds bonds and creates memories.

4. What do you do at 10 years old?
At 10, kids enjoy exploring hobbies, learning new skills, and spending time outdoors. Activities like puzzles and DIY crafts are perfect for this age.

 Final Thoughts

Keeping big kids entertained is all about balancing fun and growth. With these activities for school-aged children, you’ll find options that suit any mood or interest. 

Whether indoor games, outdoor adventures, or hands-on learning, there’s something here for every curious mind. Try these ideas and let me know what works best for your family!

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