Although I love doing learning activities and crafts with my kids, sometimes I just need to get things done and have them run along and play. I love having low-prep activities that I can remind them about or get out besides my usual playdough, car ramp, or water play activities.
Today I am sharing 17 low-prep activities for preschoolers, though many can also be used for a variety of ages of kids (toddlers on up).
Over the past few years I have tried a lot of of different activities with my kids while I make lunch or dinner or get housework done to keep them occupied. I also love to get them involved with cleaning and cooking too. Sometimes they will just skip off happily and play nicely together or alone, but other times they are pulling at me wanting me to play or turn on a movie for them. Sometimes I drop what I am doing and play, and other times I need to have them keep themselves busy.
Although I totally don't mind turning on a movie sometimes, I'd usually rather they be working on something more creative or active.
I've put together a list of just a few activities I've shared over the years that kids can do semi-independently with very little preparation. These activities still require adult supervision and are usually done in the kitchen or family room while I am cleaning or getting meals ready. A few of these activities require a little time up front preparing materials and then can easily be used again and again.
Here are 17 low-prep activities ideas you could try...
Afternoon letter "writing" time (preschooler style)
Bookmaking and creating can go on for days (make the books ahead of time and then let the kids create!)
Grab a box and do some sort and drop Lego play
Knocking down cup towers is a great activity for siblings to do together
These simple ball activities are for younger preschoolers or toddlers- easy peasy!
Fizzy Ice is awesome and perfect if you have five minutes or fifteen!
Create a kitchen band and sing along to your favorite tunes
Going on hunts is a great way to get kids working together
Feed the Monster is goofy and not the cutest craft... but man it is fun!
Grab some scrap paper pieces and build with paper strips
Make some spice towers, knock them down, then start again
Cork matching & sorting keeps little fingers busy
Huff & Puff science fun gets kids moving and experimenting
Hang up some envelopes on the wall and do some envelope sorting
Cut up some sponges for sponge tower time
Create a cute decoration for the walls by having a wreath making station
Kids sure get giggly as they move around on a tape path
These simple independent play activities for toddlers and preschoolers are also great to keep in mind when you need to get a few things done around the house.
Great ideas! Thank you!