If you’re in the toddler stage, you already know the daily struggle: what fun toddler activities can I do today? Toddlers are busy, curious, and basically ready to turn your house upside down by 9 a.m. And as much fun as it is watching them explore, it’s also… a lot, especially if you’re at home. It’s funny, because now I 1000% understand why moms are always wanting to leave the house with their kids.
In my own hunt for fun, simple toddler activities, I’ve been rounding up ideas that are low-prep, and actually keep my little guy entertained. All summer we’ve been bouncing between the zoo and the Museum of Flight (annual passes are the MVP move here), but I’m always on the lookout for new ways to keep Hayes happy, learning, and moving.
So, here’s my current list of toddler-friendly activities—ones we’re loving and a few we’re still working our way through. Zero Pinterest pressure, minimal cleanup, and maximum entertainment for your tiny tornado.
1. Zoo Days = Classic Toddler Activity & Instant Win
When it comes to things to do with toddlers, the zoo is truly a slam dunk. If you live close, grab the annual pass—it pays for itself fast. Even if you only make it through a couple exhibits before nap time, it’s still a fun (and successful) outing. Toddlers never get tired of seeing animals up close. And you’re outside, which is a win for fresh air & extra steps!
2. Take Flight at a Local Museum (Seattle Pick!)
If you’re local to Seattle, the Museum of Flight is toddler gold. Planes to climb inside, giant spaces to roam, endless buttons and levers to look at—it’s like a giant playground disguised as a museum. Bonus: with a membership, you don’t have to commit to all-day visits. We got the membership during our second trip there because it’s a quick 20-minute drive. Hayes’ favorite thing to do is eating outside at their cafe and watching the planes take off (the patio overlooks the runway).
3. Sensory Bin Magic + Kinetic Sand
Easiest at-home toddler activity ever. Sensory bins are one of the most popular toddler activities because they build motor skills and keep kids engaged. Grab a bin, fill it with rice, beans, oats—whatever’s in the pantry—then toss in spoons, cups, or toy trucks. They’ll scoop, pour, and stir it up for a good chunk of time. Here is a really cute sensory bin I found on Amazon. Also, my niece has been loving playing with kinetic sand outside — linking the best one I found here.
4. Splash Zone
Water play is always a crowd-pleaser and one of our favorite outdoor toddler activities so far. A big bowl of water, some sponges or funnels, and your toddler will splash like it’s their full-time job. Take it outside when it’s hot, or lay down a towel inside and let them go to town. We bought a water table at the start of summer and it’s been hands-down the best outdoor toy we have. Hayes loves his! Linking the one we have HERE.
5. Couch Cushion Olympics
Think American Ninja Warrior… toddler edition. Pile up couch cushions, pillows, or tape lines on the floor for balance beams in what will quickly become a go-to indoor toddler activity. It’s a total energy burn and helps with coordination (and yes, they’ll think you’re the coolest).
6. Stickers Save the Day
Never underestimate the power of stickers. A sheet of stickers + a notebook = 20 minutes of toddler concentration you didn’t think was possible. Plus, it builds fine motor skills. Major win. I feel like we’re just getting into the sticker phase over here at ~15 months.
7. Tiny Artist Studio
Nothing fancy—just crayons, washable markers, and a stack of paper. Toddlers love scribbling, and if you’re feeling bold, watercolors or finger paints outside will take it up a notch. Messy? Yes. Worth it? Also yes.
8. Treasure Hunt Walks
Rebrand your next walk as a “treasure hunt.” Toddlers will happily collect rocks, sticks, and leaves while you get a little fresh air. Cheap, easy, and somehow feels like the highlight of their week.
9. Kitchen Sidekick
Toddlers want in on everything you’re doing—so let them. Give them a spoon to stir, let them “wash” veggies, or hand over some measuring cups. Cooking with toddlers is messy, but it’s also the best way to keep them busy while you get dinner started, , and is a fun activity that also teaches them independence. I can’t WAIT until Hayes is ready to start cooking with mom in the kitchen!!!
10. Living Room Dance Party
When all else fails, crank up the music and dance it out. Toddlers love movement, rhythm, and basically any excuse to wiggle. It’s the ultimate reset button for everyone’s mood and really just the most fun, easy toddler activity for everyone. We all love Morgan Wallen over here lol.
When it comes to toddler activities, simple usually wins! These ideas prove that fun toddler activities don’t have to be complicated or expensive — just playful, simple, and full of movement. Whether it’s a big outing like the zoo or Museum of Flight, or an easy at-home setup like a sensory bin or sticker book, toddlers just want to explore and move. And on the days nothing works? Hand over a wooden spoon and mixing bowl. Somehow, they think it’s the best toy.
Let me know if you have more ideas below and I can update this post 🙂
