I’m often asked, “Jess, how do you function with five kids and a circus of animals?” The answer? Girl Scout cookies and wine (I kid, I kid…mostly…more milk than wine). Cookies aside, since beginning a life of schooling/working at home, I’ve found that we are all happier when we have options – lots of options. So, I’m going to share a few of my simple activity station ideas for kids that will keep them (and you) happy!
Simple Activities – Stay Organized!
Before jumping into ALL OF THE ACTIVITIES (sorry, I’m just incredibly excitable), let’s go over a few tips on keeping all the fun organized. In our home, a lot of little hands means a lot of little messes. Things are picked up, moved, hidden, dropped, put through the washer, dunked in the toilet, buried in the litter box…you get the idea.
Harrison is a ham, by the way. He’s happy to model our activity cart and showcase how we contain all of the fun. Sometime last year, I was browsing Amazon for rolling carts to help organize our school supplies. I stumbled across this white metal rolling cart that looked like a perfect fit for our crafting needs.
The function of this cart has changed a few times. First, it was used to store the glitter, glue, and other craft supplies. It quickly became apparent that was a horrible idea – turns out three-year-olds and one-year-olds make the perfect glitter-spreading storm (like, duh). Then, it evolved into a catch-all (like so m any other areas in this house). Finally, I found that it worked perfectly as storage unit for our many activity tubs that fit perfectly inside the two shelves and can be easily maneuvered from room to room!
Create Your Own Activity Cubbies
Believe me when I say that the possibilities are endless. From puzzles, to games, to clay, to blocks, to magnets – there are options for all ages and abilities. These cubbies come in a pack of five from Amazon and are a nice size for storing a variety of kits/items. We can fit five to six inside the rolling cart. To keep things fresh (because trading out options for active kids is a must), I have an extra set with different activities stored in the designated “adventure closet” – so I’m able to switch out cubbies every week.
Our kids love to create. Over the years, I’ve found that blocks, do-dads, and the like are the best, long-lasting “things” because there are no rules. Have you ever noticed how creativity bursts at the seams when there are no rules? Lego sets are fun, don’t get me wrong – but when kids have the freedom to build what they see inside their minds, then the gates open wide and there is no stopping them (beware if you give free access to glitter). Harrison loves to get his hands on these building disks!
Creative sets that allow exploration with their hands is something I seek out – kinetic toys, clay, play-doh, and blocks are winners in my book. Jude builds so many things with this STEM set.
Team Clay or Team Play-Doh?
While play-doh has always been a family favorite, I prefer modeling clay because it can be kept without the worry of it drying out (I can’t tell you how many hardened blobs of play-doh I’ve found hidden around the house that I’ve had to toss). We’ve ordered several of these clay packs that have lasted a couple of years, so far!
Magnets are magical. Abbey loves to design different scenes with this magnet board. While it comes with quite a variety of magnets, there are several magnet sets that make great add ons to add to any creator’s collection!
Sensory Fun!
I have so much to say about sensory friendly activities and items – but for now, I’ll share this incredibly cool liquid fusion floor tiles that our kids use every day (okay, I might play with these too). This set comes with nine floor tiles in different color combinations. Each tile is moveable with anti-slip backing and can be used on carpet or hard surface flooring.
The liquid inside the tile moves with pressure – making them a ton of fun for toddlers, teens, and adults (yep, I love these)! Right now, we are playing a lot of “the floor is lava” and these tiles have acted as stepping stones from one room to the next.
Our kids’ creativity needs and interests are always growing and changing. Keeping our creativity cart updated, organized, and in-tune with their interests keeps them engaged and excited. Because of this, I’m always updating my idea lists on my Amazon storefront. You can see my collection of ideas, here! As always, thanks for following along – peace, love, and light (after coffee)!
