educational games for 3 year olds at home online free

ACADEMICS’ CHOICE

Smart Media Award

“KneeBouncers.com will have your children laughing, singing, thinking, and asking for more! Children learn and practice a wide variety of foundational skills including letter, shape, number and animal recognition, social emotional skills, comprehension, listening, video-modeling skills, original and classic kid songs, and more!”

Sharing the love..., entertaining & educating.

“The ABC Magic Screen game has been a lifesaver - it's kept my toddler entertained while teaching her the alphabet. She now knows all her letters!" Rhonda W.

It’s a Win-Win!

“My child can't get enough of the Kiki's Music Time videos on this site. He sings and dances to all the songs. And I get a bit of a break. It's a win-win in our home!” Sharon R.

Reinforce key concepts

"I've been able to reinforce key concepts in a fun and engaging way thanks to these educational games. "Count Your Chickens" has become a favorite in my classroom." Gerald F.

What moms are saying:

NEW! ONLINE MUSIC CLASSES

Kiki’s music time - live, get one class free.

Now your child can join Kiki in a virtual music class – for FREE! That’s right – Kiki – from our Kiki’s Music Time videos, will meet your child virtually in these engaging music classes. Each class is designed to encourage and support your child’s love of music and to get them to sing, move, and play!

Sign up for two classes and the get one for FREE!

New Game - Play Music!

Birds on the wires.

Best for 1-5 year olds. On desktop requires basic mouse movements. On mobile devices simply tap the screen.

Free Online Games For Toddlers That Are Educational And Surprisingly Fun

Screen time you’ll both love.

“is your kid musical do they love to dance around and sing kneebouncers is filled with catchy and memorable songs that will even get stuck in your head. this program offers educational games for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. so, you can stick with the same program even after your little one ages out of their terrible twos and threes., play with purpose.

For kids, play is their job – and their job is to play. This natural instinct is how they learn. Our games and videos reinforce what your children are already learning. So let them play and know that they’re building their confidence, while learning foundational skills.

Get your kids school-ready with their KneeBouncer friends

Join us on social media for updates and inspiration!

Start your free trial and play all of our games.

The importance of play

KneeBouncers is play with purpose. Our interactive online games and videos are designed to engage, encourage, entertain and educate babies, toddlers and preschoolers. We keep our content age-appropriate, and l earning fun.

KneeBouncers employs a play-based developmental learning strategy to create our games. Specifically, we focus on games that spark kids’ curiosity and creativity , exploration of the world , social understanding , communication skills and movement . Our play-based developmental strategies support concrete learning objectives, including: mathematical concepts , science , language and literacy , social and emotional development , arts and music and social studies .

We strive to create age-appropriate engaging games that promote playing with purpose. Games increase in complexity as a child grows, allowing us to provide learning fun for babies through preschool students.

“Life is more fun if you play games.”

A whole lotta fun for the itty bitty ones.

KneeBouncers.com , a website full of engaging toddler games  and  baby games online. Featuring a collection of fun, interactive online games designed specifically for babies ,  toddlers , and  preschool kids.  

KneeBouncers’ gang of characters will delight your child as they explore the interactive online games that  parents, daycare and preschool teachers have embraced for their fun, simplicity, and age appropriateness. These toddler games are easy to play and your preschool kids can enjoy playing on their own. The goal with all of our interactive games is to make learning more enjoyable for your baby, toddler, and preschooler.  

Download the coloring sheets and continue the fun and learning offline. They’re a great way to learn new skills, or reinforce skills that your little one is learning. 

Check out every episode of “The KneeBouncers’ Show” – ad free! And sing-along with Kiki and her KneeBouncer friends in all the “Kiki’s Music Time” episodes! From classic children songs to our original songs – you’ll kids will be singing and dancing!

“Play gives children the chance to practice what they are learning.”

Fred rogers, learn. practice. repeat..

You learn by doing and repeating. Once your child is introduced to a new concept, it’s important for them to practice and repeat the new skill. And we make the process fun for them!

Cause and effect games are designed as tapping games that respond to the touch of the keyboard or screen. These simple baby games build confidence and encourage further exploration. 

Matching games are designed to challenge your little ones memory skills. Zoo and farm animals to shapes , colors, letters , and numbers matching games will keep your child’s memory sharp. (Yours too!)

KneeBouncers was created to instill a love of learning in babies, toddlers, preschoolers and everyone in your family. We’ve created lots of original baby games , online games for toddlers , preschool games , coloring pages , memory games , keypress games , tap games , point and click games , original animated videos , sing-along songs , nursery rhyme videos , original children songs , and so much more! 

Extend the play and learning

Get the refrigerator cleared and ready download coloring sheets from your favorite games and reinforce the lesson, more love to share..., love love love.

KneeBouncers has become a go-to for us when we need a quick and easy educational activity for our toddler.

Making Learning Enjoyable

This site has become an essential resource for our homeschooling journey. Thank you for making learning enjoyable!

Supplementing Lesson Plans

This website has been an invaluable resource in supplementing my preschool lesson plans. The games and activities are a hit with my students!

Welcome back!

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FROM KNEEBOUNCERS’ CREATOR

To my fellow parents and educators,

From one parent to another, and as the creator of KneeBouncers.com, I want you to know that our platform is more than just another website – it’s a labor of love dedicated to early learning and fun.

It started from a personal need – to create a space where little ones could play games without the fuss of a mouse. Our small haven has now grown to include over 100 ad-free, engaging games, videos, and worksheets. We believe that children learn best when they’re having fun, and that’s exactly what we’re here to provide.

By choosing us, you’re not just opting for a safe, educational journey for your child, you’re also supporting a family-owned small business. We’re still a small, passionate team at KneeBouncers, and your trust in us means more than you can imagine. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your child’s formative years.

Thanks – and keep on KneeBouncin’!

Punch Robinson

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Mommy & Me

Enjoy this original song by Kiki and the KneeBouncers! Showing Mommy the love she deserves!

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Read+Play along

Who says MOO?

Do you say moo? You and your little one will be mooved to laughter as you compete to make the different animal sounds!

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Educational Learning Games for Kids

Explore the magical world of online learning games in math and ELA, tailored for Pre-K to Grade 5, well-suited for ages 2–11. Our teacher-designed learning program offers interactive educational games on counting, arithmetic operations, fractions, shapes, reading, writing, grammar, and more. The collect ... Read more ion also covers motor skills, creativity, and GK, making it perfect for playful learning at home and school! Winning the hearts of millions of kids, teachers, and parents! Start now for free!

CONTENT TYPE

• Lesson Plans
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Number Sense Games

Sing the Number Song from 1 to 3 Game

Ask your little one to sing the number song from 1 to 3 to play this game.

Count Along with the Stars from 1 to 3 Game

Shine bright in the math world by counting along with the stars from 1 to 3.

Trace the Number One Game

Sharpen your number skills by tracing the number one.

Count the Dots from 1 to 3 Game

Count the dots from 1 to 3 to begin the exciting journey of becoming a math wizard.

Addition Games

Identify Turn Around Facts Game

Add more arrows to your child’s math quiver by identifying turn around facts.

Represent Addition Scenarios Game

Let your child see the world through math-colored shades by representing addition scenarios!

Count On to Add within 10 Game

Dive deep into the world of addition by counting on to add within 10.

Record Addition in Sentences Game

Kids must record addition in sentences to practice addition skills.

Subtraction Games

Decompose 10 to Make Numbers Game

Apply your knowledge of subtraction to decompose 10 to make a number.

Subtraction Equations Game

Unearth the wisdom of mathematics by learning how to complete subtraction equations.

Count to Tell One Less Game

Take a look at how to count to tell 'one less' with this subtraction game.

Count Backward From 10 Game

Ask your little one to count backward from 10 to play this game.

Multiplication Games

Identify the Multiplication Expression Game

Shine bright in the math world by learning how to identify the multiplication expression.

Find Equal Groups and Size of Group Game

Practice the superpower of multiplication by learning to find equal groups and the size of group.

Repeated Addition with Equal Groups Game

Enter the madness of math-multiverse by exploring repeated addition with equal groups.

Count Rows and Columns Game

Take the first step towards building your math castle by practicing to count rows and columns.

Division Games

Select the Expression to Estimate Game

Take a deep dive into the world of math by selecting the expression to estimate correctly.

Represent Division on Number Line Game

Have your own math-themed party by learning how to represent division on number lines.

Use Multiplication to Divide by 2 Game

Take a deep dive into the world of math by using multiplication to divide by 2.

Find the Quotient Game

Enter the madness of math-multiverse by learning to find the quotient.

Fractions Games

Understand Equal Parts Game

Let your child see the world through math-colored shades by understanding equal parts.

Choose the Fraction Represented by the Model Game

Unearth the wisdom of mathematics by learning how to choose the fraction represented by the model.

Compare Fractions Using Fraction Strips Game

Enjoy the marvel of math-multiverse by exploring how to compare fractions using fraction strips.

Identify Equivalent Fractions Game

Treat yourself to an immersive learning experience by identifying equivalent fractions.

Decimals Games

Identify Tenths Using Fraction Models Game

Apply your knowledge of decimals to identify tenths using fraction models.

Identify Decimal Numbers Using Fraction Models Game

Add more arrows to your child’s math quiver by identifying decimal numbers using fraction models.

Identify Hundredths Less than 1 Game

Begin the exciting journey of becoming a math wizard by identifying hundredths less than 1.

Decimals on the Place Value Chart Game

Use your skills to practice decimals on the place value chart.

Geometry Games

Sort Real-World Shapes Game

Add more arrows to your child’s math quiver by sorting real-world shapes.

Draw Angles in Multiples of 10 Degrees Game

Play this game to draw angles in multiples of 10 degrees.

Identify Objects Above and Below Game

Learn to solve problems by identifying objects 'above' and 'below'.

Recognize Lines, Line Segments, Rays, Angles Game

Dive deep into the world of geometry by recognizing lines, line segments, rays, angles.

Measurement Games

Guess the Correct Unit of Capacity Game

Have your own math-themed party by learning to identify the correct unit of capacity.

Identify Objects by Color Game

Sharpen your skills by identifying objects by their colors.

Conversion Tables for Metric Units of Length Game

Help kids practice measurements with these conversion tables for metric units of length.

Identify the Heavier Object Game

Shine bright in the math world by learning how to identify the heavier object.

The Hour Hand Game

Add more arrows to your child’s math quiver by playing 'The Hour Hand' game.

Read Time in Half Hours Game

Shine bright in the math world by learning how to read time in half hours.

Relate Activities with A.M. and P.M. Game

Shine bright in the math world by learning how to relate activities with A.M. and P.M.

Find Elapsed Time Game

Enjoy the marvel of mathematics by learning how to find elapsed time.

Money Games

Count Money with Coins of a Type Game

Help your child take flight by learning how to count money with coins of a type.

Use Coins to Make the Given Amount Game

Have your own math-themed party by learning how to use coins to make the given amount.

Different Types of Coins Game

Explore different types of coins with your little one.

Count Coins of a Type Game

Have your own math-themed party by learning how to count coins of a type.

Algebra Games

Fill in the Correct Number Using Additive Patterns Game

Fill in the correct number using additive patterns.

Choose the Prime Number Out of the Given Numbers Game

Kids must choose the prime number out of the given numbers to practice algebra.

Select the First FIve Multiples of Various Numbers Game

Have your own math-themed party by learning to select the first five multiples of various numbers.

Simplify Expressions with Two Operations Game

Ask your little one to simplify expressions with two operations to play this game.

Word Problems Games

Adding One by Making a Model Game

Treat yourself to an immersive learning experience with our 'Adding One by Making a Model' game.

Solve the Word Problems on Fraction Addition Game

Have your own math-themed party by learning how to solve the word problems on fraction addition.

Solve Word Problems on Division Game

Learn to solve math problems by solving word problems on division.

Find the Change Game

Use your counting money skills to find the change.

Reading Games

Can You Find the Lowercase Letter a? Game

To play this game, find the lowercase letter a.

What's the cause? - Part 1 Game

Use your language skills to determine 'what's the cause' (Part 1).

Can You Find the Uppercase Letter A? Game

To play this game, find the uppercase letter A.

What's the effect? - Part 1 Game

Determine the answer to 'What's the effect' (Part 1) by playing this game.

Writing Games

Tracing Big Letters With Sleeping & Slanting Lines - A, V, W, X, Y & Z Game

Practice tracing big letters with sleeping & slanting lines - A, V, W, X, Y & Z.

Tracing Small Letters With Standing & Curvy Lines - a, d & q Game

Practice tracing small letters with standing and curvy lines - a, d and q.

Learn to Write the Sight Words: like, the & likes Game

Children must learn to write the sight words: like, the & likes.

Learn to Write the Sight Words: play, funny & many Game

Children must learn to write the sight words: play, funny & many.

Banana: Tropical Coloring Adventure Game

Dive into a fruity adventure and paint vibrant bananas.

Cheese-Themed Coloring Fun Game

Paint delicious blocks of cheese with vibrant colors.

Cookie: Chef Yum Yum Game

Step into the kitchen and bake mouthwatering cookies.

Vibrant Bell Pepper Coloring Adventure Game

Explore the world of fruits and vegetables and paint colorful bell peppers in this interactive coloring game.

Animals Games

Dive into Clownfish Coloring Game

Dive into an underwater adventure and paint vibrant clownfish swimming amidst coral reefs in this game.

Iguana: Picture Perfect Game

Dive into the world of reptiles and paint picture-perfect iguanas in this engaging game.

Dive into the Turtle Picture Game

Embrace your artistic side and create a beautiful picture of an adorable turtle in this engaging game.

Allosaurus: Dinosaur Coloring Adventure Game

Travel back in time and paint fierce allosaurs with vibrant colors.

Seasonal Games

Mysterious Black Cat Coloring Adventure Game

Bring mischievous black cats to life with vibrant colors.

Ringing Bells Coloring Adventure Game

Jingle all the way with colorful bells in this exciting coloring adventure game.

Bat Coloring Adventure Game

Paint enchanting bats with a burst of colors in this coloring adventure game.

Christmas Pudding Coloring Magic Game

Celebrate the holidays with a burst of colors in this coloring adventure game.

Kitchen Games

Donut: Chef Yum Yum Game

Step into the kitchen and create mouthwatering donuts.

Knife Coloring Game Adventure

Discover the art of illustration and paint detailed depictions of knives in this engaging coloring adventure game.

Shiny Glass Coloring Adventure Game

Unleash your creativity and paint intricate glass objects in this immersive coloring adventure game.

Kitchenware Coloring Game: The Fork

Explore the beauty of everyday objects and paint detailed illustrations of forks in this coloring adventure game.

Musical Instruments Games

Maracas Shake Up Your Coloring Skills Game

Paint vibrant maracas and bring the rhythm to life in this coloring adventure game.

Musical Flute Coloring Fun Game

Paint melodious flutes with a burst of colors in this coloring adventure game.

Groovy Guitar Coloring Adventure Game

Strum your artistic skills and paint rocking guitars in this coloring adventure game.

Drum Beat Coloring Fun Game

Let your creativity beat to the rhythm and paint vibrant drums.

Birds Games

Albatross: Picture Perfect Game

Soar through the skies with vibrant albatrosses in this picture perfect game.

Dive into Colors with Ducks Game

Dive into a pond of colors with ducks in this picture perfect game.

Chicken: Picture Perfect Game

Paint charming chickens in this picture perfect game.

Eagle: Picture Perfect Game

Spread your wings and paint majestic eagles in this picture perfect game.

Space Games

Space Hunt: Peek A Boo Game

Embark on a space-themed adventure and search for hidden objects in this interactive game.

Balloon Pop - Unknown Flying Object:UFO: Toss Up Game

Test your tossing skills and pop balloons to reveal unidentified flying objects (UFOs) in this exciting game.

Transport Games

Airplane: Sky-high Coloring Adventure Game

Embark on an artistic journey and paint dynamic airplanes taking flight in this coloring adventure game.

Master Garage Management Game

Become a master of organization and park cars in this garage management game.

Helicopter Coloring Game: Sky High Fun

Let your creativity take flight as you paint vibrant illustrations of helicopters in this engaging coloring game.

Insects Games

Caterpillar Coloring Adventure Game

Paint cute caterpillars with a burst of colors in this coloring adventure game.

Beautiful Butterfly Coloring Adventure Game

Let your creativity take flight and paint breathtaking butterflies.

Beetle Coloring Adventure Game

Embark on a colorful journey and paint fascinating beetles.

Buzzing Bee Coloring Adventure Game

Buzz with creativity and paint adorable bees with a palette of colors.

Scene Games

Autumn Fall: Seasonal Coloring Adventure Game

Paint a picturesque autumn scene and immerse yourself in the beauty of fall in this coloring adventure game.

Beach Scene Coloring Adventure Game

Dive into a tropical paradise and paint a vibrant beach scene in this coloring adventure game.

Jungle Game: Wild Coloring Adventures

Immerse yourself in the wild and paint a lush jungle scene teeming with life in this coloring adventure game.

Exciting Circus Coloring Experience Game

Unleash your creativity and paint a vibrant circus scene filled with excitement and joy in this coloring adventure game.

Professions Games

Doctor's Coloring Journey Game

Use your artistic skills to paint a compassionate doctor in this coloring adventure game.

Astronaut: Space Coloring Adventure Game

Embark on a cosmic coloring adventure and paint a vibrant astronaut in this game.

Chef's Coloring Journey Game

Unleash your inner artist and paint a vibrant chef in this coloring adventure game.

Farmer's Coloring Journey Game

Dive into the agricultural world and paint a cheerful farmer in this coloring adventure game.

Monuments Games

Experience Colosseum Coloring Game

Travel back in time and color the magnificent Colosseum with vibrant hues.

London Bridge Coloring Game Adventure

Create a picturesque scene by coloring the iconic London Bridge.

Liberty Bell Coloring Game Adventure

Paint the symbol of freedom, the Liberty Bell, with a burst of colors.

Eiffel Tower Coloring Experience Game

Embark on a Parisian coloring adventure and paint the iconic Eiffel Tower.

Household Items Games

Balloon: Sky-high Coloring Adventure Game

Let your creativity soar and paint vibrant balloons in this coloring adventure game.

Book Coloring Adventure Game

Dive into a world of imagination and color books with vibrant hues.

Ball: Bouncy Coloring Adventure Game

Paint bouncy balls with a burst of colors and bring them to life.

Chair Coloring Adventure Game

Express your artistic touch and paint stylish chairs in this coloring adventure game.

Flowers Games

Lily Coloring Game Adventure

Dive into a world of elegance and color lilies with vibrant hues.

Lotus An Exciting Coloring Game Adventure

Paint serene lotus flowers and create a tranquil atmosphere.

Jasmine Game: Fragrant Coloring Fun

Explore the world of jasmine flowers with a burst of colors.

Delightful Daisy Coloring Game

Paint vibrant daisies and bring the beauty of flowers to life.

Buildings Games

Exciting Bank Coloring Adventure Game

Color a bustling bank scene with vibrant colors in this coloring adventure game.

Creative Barber Shop Coloring Adventure Game

Bring the barber shop to life with colorful hues in this coloring adventure game.

Church-Themed Coloring Fun Game

Paint a beautiful church with a rainbow of colors in this coloring adventure game.

Bakery: Delicious Coloring Game

Step into a sweet world and color delicious treats in this coloring adventure game.

Colors Games

Spot Hidden Orange Shapes Game

Train your eyes and spot hidden orange shapes in this challenging game.

• Uncover Hidden Green Shapes Game

Test your visual acuity and uncover hidden green shapes in this thrilling game.

Pink: Sneaky Shapes Game

Exercise your perception and discover hidden pink shapes in this captivating game.

Blue: Sneaky Shapes Game

Sharpen your observation skills and spot hidden blue shapes in this engaging game.

Coloring Games

Hot Air Balloon Coloring Adventures: A Sky High Colorfest Game

Experience the joy of floating in the sky and paint delightful hot air balloons in this coloring adventure game.

4th of July: Creative Coloring Adventure Game

Paint a festive scene filled with red, white, and blue to commemorate the 4th of July in this coloring adventure game.

• Cupcake Coloring Fun Game

Decorate delightful cupcakes with a splash of colors.

Ape: Jungle Coloring Adventure Game

Embark on a coloring adventure with playful apes.

Music Games

Dive into Mulberry Bush Band Jam Game

Join the band and play the classic song "Here We Go Round The Mulberry Bush" in this interactive game.

Experience Down They Go Juke Box Game

Sing along and perform the catchy song "Down They Go" in this interactive game.

Play Baba Black Sheep Band Jam Game

Join the band and play the popular song "Baba Baba Black Sheep" in this interactive game.

Enjoy the All of Me Juke Box Game

Show off your singing skills and perform the popular song "All of Me" in this interactive game.

Cooking Games

Cupcake: Chef Yum Yum Game

Let your creativity shine and decorate delightful cupcakes.

Ice Cream: Chef Yum Yum Game

Scoop up the fun and make mouthwatering ice cream creations.

Pizza: Chef Yum Yum Game

Become a master pizza chef and create delicious pizzas.

Stories Games

Dive into Busy Body Sleep Solution Juke Box Game

Listen to calming tunes and relax your body for a peaceful sleep in this interactive game.

Enjoy Going Batty Juke Box Game

Sing and groove to the catchy tune of "Going Batty" in this interactive jukebox game.

Enjoy Dream Vacation Juke Box Game

Take a musical journey to your dream vacation destination in this immersive game.

Explore Little Turtle's Dream Juke Box Game

Join Little Turtle on a musical adventure and explore his dream world in this interactive game.

Puzzles Games

• Play Word Detective Game

Put your word skills to the test and solve puzzles like a detective.

Challenge Two of a Kind Game

Sharpen your memory and find matching pairs in this engaging game.

Sneaky Shapes Game

Sharpen your observation skills and uncover hidden shapes.

Picture Perfect Game

Paint, draw, and express your artistic skills in this picture perfect game.

Time Based Games

Number Ninja: Fun Math Arcade Game

Become a number ninja and slice through math challenges.

Challenge Match-Up Puzzles Game

Test your memory and matching skills in this engaging puzzle game.

Speedy Snails Game

Join the speedy snails in a thrilling race for victory.

Dive into Sky Boxes Game

Test your stacking skills and reach new heights in this sky-high game.

Player vs Player Games

Dive into Arty Crafty Game

Let your artistic skills shine and create amazing crafts.

Cooking Adventure Game

Get ready for a cooking adventure and satisfy hungry customers.

Challenge the City Stacker Game

Build a magnificent city by stacking colorful buildings.

Experience Polyword Game

Dive into the world of polywords and solve challenging puzzles.

Fine Finger Movement Games

Discover The Dancing Jungle Game

Shake, groove, and dance with the animals in the vibrant jungle.

Aiming and Precision Games

Feed The Bin: Toss Up Game

Feed the hungry bin by tossing objects accurately.

Balloon Pop: Toss Up Game

Enjoy popping balloons in this exciting toss up game.

Dive into The Origami Aquarium Game

Dive into the world of origami with this aquarium game.

Ball Dunk: Toss Up Game

Test your skills and dunk balls in this toss up game.

All Games Games

Model to Add Numbers Game

Dive deep into the world of math by modeling to add numbers.

• Remove and Match the Number Game

Enjoy the marvel of math-multiverse by exploring how to remove and match the number.

Divide Objects into Equal Groups Game

Add more arrows to your child’s math quiver by helping them divide objects into equal groups.

Buffalo: Picture Perfect Game

Explore the world of buffalos in this picture perfect game.

Kettle Game: Steaming Coloring Fun

Paint charming kettles with a burst of colors in this coloring adventure game.

Alien: Space Coloring Adventure Game

Let your imagination run wild and paint unique and colorful aliens in this adventure-packed coloring game.

Toss Up Game

Challenge your accuracy and toss objects to hit various targets.

• Magic Canvas Color Your Imagination Game

Let your imagination soar and create enchanting art on a magical canvas.

Dive into Get Set Quiz Game

Get ready to quiz yourself and challenge your knowledge in this interactive game.

Peek A Boo Game

Peek-a-boo! Have fun and uncover surprises in this engaging game.

Build the Model to Add Numbers Game

Enjoy the marvel of mathematics by exploring how to build the model to add numbers.

Take Away to Match the Number Game

Apply your knowledge of subtraction to take away to match the number.

Educational Games for Kids

Educational games are very effective in promoting learning. Online learning games for kids help them to develop valuable skills from arithmetic to word recognition, number sense to writing, and much more. Games make learning effective by merging learning and practice with fun. Children have a great time mastering essential curriculum concepts by playing interactive learning games from a varied selection online. Moreover, these games are designed according to the CCSS curriculum. They offer an interactive learning environment that adapts to a child's learning pace and level. They provide immediate feedback, reinforcing correct answers and allowing for mistakes as part of the learning process. 

Types of Educational and Learning Games for Kids

A wide range of subjects are covered by these learning games suitable for Pre-K to Grade 5. It ensures that children can explore and excel in various areas of their interest. Whether it's improving Math skills or enhancing ELA proficiency, educational games are proving to be a valuable tool in the learning journey of kids. Games for kids online not only supplement traditional learning but also provide a fun and innovative approach to learning.

Math games include fun games for kids on essential topics such as number sense, arithmetic operation (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division), fractions, decimals, geometry, measurement, time, money, algebra, and word problems. Every topic is further divided into bite-sized concepts (as per the curriculum) to make the games simple and easy for kids to understand and play. Explore educational Math games for kids to get a better idea!

ELA games refer to English Language Arts games. These games include fun curriculum-aligned activities to learn and master reading and writing skills. Reading games in ELA teach phonics skills to kids in an engaging way. Writing games include fun activities such as tracing letters and writing sight words. Browse our ELA games for kids for more information!

General Knowledge Games

Every parent hopes that their children gain not only textbook knowledge but also an understanding of the world around them. With this purpose in mind, we offer GK Games for kids which cover lots of topics such as food, birds and animals, flowers, kitchen and household items, musical instruments, space, transport, insects, different professions, colors, toys, and much more! The idea is to introduce a wide variety of topics through fun activities such as coloring. Visit General Knowledge Games for kids to explore more!

Art & Creativity Games

Art and creativity is an important part of our lives. Helping children to pursue their imagination and creative interests helps their overall development. Arts and creativity games go beyond entertainment and cover topics such as coloring, music (rhymes and poems), cooking, and fun stories! 

Ready to spark creativity in your kids? Try our Art and Creativity Games today and watch your child's talents bloom!

Logic & Thinking Games

The first thing that comes to mind when you think about logic and thinking is “Puzzles.” Our logic and thinking games include lots of challenging puzzle games based on numbers, pictures, matching shapes, building shapes, and more such fun topics! Visit Logic and Thinking Games and take your children on a fun adventure!

Multiplayer Games

What can be more fun than enjoying your favorite games with your buddies? Multiplayer games allow kids to engage with friends promoting teamwork, healthy competition, and strategic thinking in a virtual environment. Visit Multiplayer Games and explore time based games, player vs. player games, etc. 

Motor Skills Games

Motor skills in kids refers to both fine motor skills (precise movements like writing) and gross motor skills (larger movements like running). Developing motor skills is vital for physical coordination, dexterity, and overall physical and cognitive development in children. Check out Motor Skills Games for kids and explore fun learning games to improve fine finger movement and also aim and precision. 

Features of Fun Educational Games for Kids

• Play on multiple devices : Online games for kids can be played on multiple devices.
• Engaging and rewarding games : Children can purchase assets for their characters and more with the coins they earn through practice.
• Offline access : These interactive games for kids can also be played offline for an interruption-free experience.

Benefits of Online Educational Games for Kids

• Personalized learning: With personalized learning and entertaining rewards, online games strengthen students' confidence when solving mathematics and ELA problems. 
• Fun prompts and consistent techniques : Kids’ learning games can provide a better learning approach for students as prompts and consistent techniques emphasizing the basics of math and ELA can assist your child in improving their knowledge. 
• Powerful visuals : Online learning games involve engaging visuals that educate students about complex topics effortlessly and present a way to work through them with ease.

What Are the 5 Best Games and Activities for Kids?

Here are 5 fun educational games online offered by SplashLearn:

How do you help kids practice different educational concepts in the curriculum?

• Provide online printable worksheets such as Math worksheets and ELA worksheets for effective practice of essential concepts.
• Explore children’s learning games aligned with the curriculum and grade level. Include kids’ learning games in your child’s daily routine to offer hands-on learning and build a daily learning habit.

Are there any free trial options to test out these games?

Yes, parents can sign in and try SplashLearn educational games and other resources with a 7-day free trial. For teachers, SplashLearn is 100% free. Teachers can register to explore all SplashLearn games and resources for free!

How does SplashLearn ensure personalized learning through its online educational games?

The SplashLearn’s adaptive algorithm creates an individualized learning path for each child, suitable for their grade level and skills. This allows kids to learn at their own pace.

What age group are these games designed for?

SplashLearn games are suitable for ages 2 to 11. SplashLearn also serves as a valuable resource for older children with special needs, helping them bridge the gap to their grade level and master basics.

How can I make teaching fun for kids through games?

Teaching English and math concepts through children’s learning games can be really engaging and enjoyable for students. Including activities and online interactive games that promote critical thinking and creativity can truly help with in-depth learning of various concepts.

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Free Math Games Games for 3-Year-Olds

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• Kindergarten
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• Logic and Early Math

Introducing our captivating collection of Math games, meticulously crafted for 3-Year-Olds! Designed to ignite a passion for numbers and shapes in young minds, our games blend interactive fun with foundational math concepts perfect for toddlers. With a mix of engaging activities now available and more exciting web-based options coming soon, our games are meticulously tailored to make learning enjoyable and accessible. Whether it's counting, recognizing patterns, or understanding sizes, our Math for 3-Year-Olds games ensure a delightful educational journey for your little one, setting the stage for a lifelong love of learning. Explore our collection today and watch your child's math skills flourish!

The Magic of Math for 3-Year-Olds: Unlocking the Joy of Numbers Through Interactive Games

In the vibrant world of early childhood development, introducing young minds to the wonders of mathematics can be a delightful adventure. Our carefully designed math games crafted specifically for 3-year-olds, offer an enchanting journey into the realm of numbers, shapes, and patterns. These games are not just educational tools; they are gateways to a lifetime of curiosity and love for learning. By blending the essence of play with the foundational concepts of mathematics, we have created a unique learning experience that is both engaging and immensely beneficial for toddlers.

The Power of Interactive Learning

Interactive learning stands at the core of our math games for 3-year-olds. Studies have consistently shown that children learn best when they are actively engaged and enjoying the process. Our games are built on this principle, providing a hands-on learning experience that captivates young minds. Through touching, dragging, and clicking, toddlers can explore mathematical concepts in a way that feels more like play than education. This interactive approach not only enhances cognitive development but also improves fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

A Wide Range of Math Concepts

Our games cover a wide array of math concepts tailored for the developmental stage of 3-year-olds. From recognizing numbers and counting to understanding basic shapes and patterns, our games are designed to lay a strong mathematical foundation. Each game introduces these concepts in a gentle, approachable manner, allowing children to progress at their own pace. The use of bright colors, friendly characters, and engaging sound effects further enriches the learning experience, making each mathematical concept memorable and fun.

Accessibility and Convenience

Recognizing the dynamic nature of today’s digital world, we are excited to announce that our math games will soon be available to play on the web. This development ensures that our educational tools are more accessible and convenient for parents and educators. Whether at home or on the go, your child can continue their mathematical adventure, ensuring consistent learning without the limitations of platform or location. This accessibility is key to integrating learning into daily routines, making math a constant companion in your child’s growth journey.

The Benefits of Early Math Introduction

Introducing math to children at the tender age of 3 has profound benefits. It not only prepares them for formal schooling but also nurtures problem-solving skills, logical thinking, and a keen attention to detail. Our math games are designed to tap into the natural curiosity of toddlers, encouraging them to ask questions, seek solutions, and celebrate their achievements. This early introduction to math fosters a positive attitude towards the subject, often translating into academic success in later years.

Our math games for 3-year-olds stand at the intersection of education and entertainment, offering a rich, interactive learning experience. By engaging with these games, children embark on a journey of discovery, where numbers and shapes become fascinating friends. As we expand our offerings to the web, we are excited to bring the magic of math to even more young learners. Join us in nurturing the next generation of mathematicians, problem solvers, and creative thinkers.

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Kindergarten Games Online

3 year old games.

✅  Educational games for 3 year olds online. Free online learning activities for teaching and learning. These free games for kids are computer games, interactive in nature and online to play, no download needed! PC Games are ideal to be used with children as a complement in learning, to reinforce the dynamics of teaching, by parents and teachers in the classroom or at home.

ZOO MEMORY Matching Game

DINOSAURS COLORING BOOK

MOVING MAZE Game for Kids

MONSTER BRAINS: Alphabetical Order Game for Kids

BABY PUZZLE: Jigsaw Puzzles for Babies and Toddlers

MATH DOODLE: Matching Pairs Game

Shadow Challenge: SEA ANIMALS

Autumn Vertical Jigsaw Puzzle

CLEAN OCEAN Game for Ki

ANIMAL SHAPES Puzzle Game

COUNT ANIMALS Up to 10

SHADOW GAME: Visual Perception

CHILDREN COLORING Online

THE SOUND: Guess the Sound Game for Kids

ENGLISH ALPHABET GAME: Listening

Coloring Transports for Kids

PRESS THE LONGEST STICK

WHAT IS? Select the Object that Fits

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SHAPES MATCHING PUZZLE Games for Christmas

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ONLINE COLORING for KIDS

SHAPE PUZZLES with ANIMALS online

5 Piece Animal Jigsaw Puzzle

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CATCH THAT CAT: Identical Cats on Halloween

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LETTER SHAPES: ABC Silhouettes

Free online educational activities for 3 year old boys and girls in preschool education, also called kindergarten. Young children stop being babies and begin to think creatively to solve problems at this age of three years. Although one of the most important senses at this age is touch, we can take advantage of these interactive activities to stimulate this creativity, in kindergarten or at home. Enjoy these virtual children’s games for 3 year olds, or include, as a teacher, these games in your classroom dynamics, online, without the need to download materials to your students’ computers or tablets. And they are free.

- KINDER MATH Games Online

Educational topics for 3 years.

• Hidden Object
• Same and Different
• Jigsaw Puzzles
• Animal Sounds
• Geometric Shapes
• Numbers 0-10
• Transportation
• Occupations

FUN GAMES for KIDS

• Car Games for Toddlers
• Dino Games for Kids
• Kids Board Games

What do children learn at age 3?

• Language: By age 3, children can speak in complete sentences and understand the meaning of basic words. They can follow simple directions, ask questions and participate in simple conversations. They can also learn new words and build their vocabulary. In the classroom, they can learn letters, starting with vowels.
• Math: At this age, children can begin to understand simple math concepts, such as counting to 10, identifying colors and shapes, and understanding the idea of “more” and “less”. They can also begin to learn about sequence and pattern.
• Visual discrimination: 3-year-olds can begin to distinguish between different shapes, sizes and colors. They can also begin to understand the idea of one-to-one correspondence, which means that an object has a partner or equal.
• Attention: 3-year-olds can focus on a task for a short period of time and can follow a sequence of activities. However, they can still be easily distracted and need guidance to maintain focus on an activity.
• Society: 3-year-olds can begin to understand the idea of social rules and expectations, such as appropriate behavior in public and the importance of sharing. They can also begin to grasp the idea of social relationships and how to interact with other children and adults.
• Science: 3-year-olds can begin to explore the natural world and learn about nature and animals. They can also begin to understand simple science concepts, such as gravity and cause and effect.

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At Starfall, children have fun while they learn.

Starfall was founded by Dr. Stephen Schutz, who had difficulty learning to read as a child due to dyslexia. He was motivated to create a learning platform with untimed, multisensory interactive games that allow children to see, hear, and touch as they learn. read more...

Starfall was developed in the classroom by teachers and opened in August 2002 as a free public service to teach children to read. Since then it has expanded to include standards in language arts and mathematics for preschool through fifth grade and above. The program emphasizes exploration, play, and positive reinforcement—encouraging children to become confident and intrinsically motivated. Due to the engaging content that “feels like play,” Starfall serves as an educational alternative to other entertainment choices for children. read more...

Starfall activities are research-based and align with state learning objectives for English language arts and mathematics. Its emphasis on phonemic awareness, systematic sequential phonics, and common sight words in conjunction with audiovisual interactivity is especially effective for teaching emergent readers, children of all ages with special needs or learning difficulties, as well as ELL (ESL) students. It is widely used in schools and homeschools.

Starfall’s low-cost membership program expands the free content to include additional animated songs, mathematics activities, and reading. Membership supports the production of new books, educational games, and movies.

Play free online toddler games and games for babies!

Online games for babies to play using keyboard or touchscreen.

Free Educational games for babies and kids. We have created the most beautiful and popular online games for kids, babies and young children available to play for free. Our aim is to provide a safe and recommended free website dedicated for kids, crafted with love and offering the best online learning benefits for toddlers, babies, and preschoolers.

Toddler Games to point and Click (PC) or Tap (Mobile)

We believe that learning should be a fun and enjoyable experience for children. Therefore, our online and free educational activities for kids 1-2-3-4-5-years old are designed with the most beautiful drawings to play and captivate their imagination and foster their cognitive and motor skills.

Free Toddler Games: dragging and dropping

From online puzzles for kids and colorful memory games to paint drawing activities for 1-2-3-4-5-years old and educational activities for children, our online collection offers a wide variety of options to keep young minds stimulated and entertained.

Toddler games online to move and direct the mouse or to swap the finger on touchscreens

We have carefully designed each online educational game for kids to be age-appropriate, ensuring that it caters to the developmental needs and interests of preschoolers and young children with the most beautiful drawings.

Toddler Online Games: Coloring and Painting Games

Online activities for kids and preschoolers. In addition to the captivating gameplay, our free website for 1-2-3-4-5-years old also provides a user-friendly interface that is easy for young children to navigate independently.

4 pieces jigsaw puzzles for toddlers: by dragging and dropping

At our free website for kids, we understand the importance of providing a secure online environment for children to explore, play, and learn. Safety of children 1-2-3-4-5-years old is our utmost priority, and we have implemented stringent measures to ensure a secure browsing educational experience for children.

Online Games for Toddlers: Maze Games

We take pride in the positive feedback we receive from parents and educators who have witnessed the developmental benefits our free educational games provide. Our online website offers a wide array of online activities for 1-2-3-4-5-years old young children, with the best drawings and completely free to play.

Free Online Memory Games for Toddlers

From enhanced problem-solving abilities to improved hand-eye coordination, our free activities for kids 1-2-3-4-5-years old have proven to be effective tools for early childhood learning.

Welcome to HappyClicks.net, a website full of entertaining, toddler games and baby games online.

Happy Clicks features a collection of free interactive online educational activities designed with the most beautiful drawings for babies , toddlers , and preschool kids , with brightly colored effects that will keep them delighted. Here, you will find interactive online activities that parents can enjoy playing with their babies and toddlers. These free toddler games are simple to play, and preschool kids can enjoy playing them on their own. Fun and free, our games make learning more enjoyable for your baby, toddler, and preschooler. Our activities are a great way to learn new skills. Additionally, Happy Clicks provides an opportunity for you to spend quality time playing with your toddler or baby.

Our free online games for toddlers are entertaining for everyone.

You may be surprised at how early your son and/or daughter can point, click, and navigate their way through enjoyable activities . The activities are interactive and simple, making learning fun with the coolest drawings. All the online games for babies and toddlers (1-2-3-4-5-year-old) on this site are free. Mothers and fathers can enjoy playing with their toddler or preschooler .

Kids, preschoolers, toddlers, babies, parents , and everyone in your family will find lots of original educational online games for toddlers and baby games . Here, you will find free coloring pages , toddler maze games , memory games for preschoolers , keypress games for babies , point and click games , and many more to play with your baby or toddler.

Play and learn with your child online!

Watch Our Videos! Fun Videos for Babies and Toddlers 1 year, 2 year, 3 year old.

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Scott Gilbertson

11 Great Games to Educate and Entertain Your Kids at Home

If you're stuck inside and your kids are climbing the walls, but you aren't yet ready to let them watch Netflix from dawn to dusk, well, I don't blame you. Here are some games that are sometimes called "edutaining." Think of them as fun games that also teach something, but in a way your kids probably won't notice.

I do suggest setting some screen time limits before handing your children a device, but with these options you can at least rest assured that your kids are learning something.

If you buy something using the links in our stories, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Here’s how this works . You can also support our reporting and reviewing by purchasing a 1-year print + digital WIRED subscription for $5 (Discounted) .

Ages 6-12 ( Computer , iOS , Android )

Animal Jam is an online virtual world originally created in collaboration with the National Geographic Society. It teaches kids about zoology and ecology with games, adventures, and parties and online social elements. With 160 million registered users, this is one of the largest virtual worlds for kids. If the online play gives you pause, know that the parental controls are pretty good, allowing you to lock down the game if you desire.

Ages 5 and up on Nintendo Switch ( GameStop , Amazon )

Boone Ashworth

Reece Rogers

This is a great game that encourages spacial thinking and unique puzzle solving. Kids can pilot Toad through courses based on the Super Mario Odyssey game while hunting down treasures and solving puzzles.

This math-based role-playing game is free to play. Kids proceed through the game by answering skill-building math questions to earn rewards. There's an interactive element, too; they can go on quests with friends. The difficulty levels increase as your kids make progress in the game.

Ages 3-8 ( iOS , Android )

This physics puzzle game features rolling aliens that teach your kids about acceleration, buoyancy, gravity, and more. Like games of yesteryear, there are no ads, no in-app purchases, and it doesn't need an internet connection.

Ages 4 and Up ( Computer , iOS , Android )

Tinybop has dozens of learning-oriented apps and we've been fans for years . You can purchase them in bundles for iPhone or iPad (Android users there is one Tinybop bundle in the Play Store which has six games.) My kids love the Curiosity Kit ($16) , which includes apps about the human body, animal anatomy, and space. Tinybop is currently offering its Tinybop Schools subscription , which features ten science apps and classroom support, for free through the summer to help out parents and kids while schools are closed (no credit card required).

Ages 4 and Up ( iOS , Android )

Dragonbox games are primarily math-related, though they also partnered with chess champ Magnus Carlsen to create Magnus' Kingdom , a chess-learning game that's been very popular in my house. It uses an adventure-style approach to teach kids about different chess pieces and how to play. I strongly suggest picking up a real-world chess board (I like this no-stress chess board for beginners $18 ) as well. Your kids will ask for it. Trust me.

Ages 3 and Up ( Computer , iOS , Android )

It's time you let delightful animated monsters teach your kids everything from basic ABCs to complex sentences. It has puzzle games with talking letters and well-illustrated definitions to help your child learn to read. Originator, the publisher of Endless Alphabet , has many other games as well , including Endless Reader , which helps kids learn sight words, and Endless Spanish which helped my kids significantly improve their Spanish vocabulary.

Ages 4-6 ( Computer )

This language, arts, and music learning site has dozens of games and activities to help your kids learn to read, add, subtract, and identify shapes.

Ages 4-8 ( iOS , Android )

PBS Kids has dozens of apps, many of them related to the shows on PBS Kids. If your kids like a particular show, they'll probably really engage with its related game, as well.

Ages 4 and Up ( iOS )

Stop-motion animation is a fun form of art that teaches patience. This animation app will help your kids start creating their own little animated masterpieces. The interface is reasonably simple, but it might require the help of an adult the first time through.

All ages ( Apple Podcasts for iOS , Google Podcasts for Android )

Check out our guide to kids' podcasts for some ideas on great podcasts that will keep your kids entertained. If you're a podcast fan yourself, you should try using Pocket Casts (great app). I suggest getting a separate podcast app for your kids, so there's no way they'll accidentally end up listening to any adult content you don't want them to hear.

March 25, 9 am: This story was updated to add links to the Tinybop Android app bundle.

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16 Fun and Free Learning Websites for Kids

Your children can learn something new today in a safe online environment. These free educational websites for kids are fun while offering online learning games , printables, videos, and more. Pull them up the next time your child asks to use a cell phone or tablet!

Sesame Street

Younger children will love everything about Sesame Street's online home . They can watch hundreds of the show's video clips and play games that help them learn letters, animal sounds, rhymes, colors, and more.

Scholastic is one of the more unique educational websites for kids. This site, from the publishers of the educational magazines you find in schools, contains activities organized by grade level. Kids from pre-K all the way up to high school can find learning activities geared toward them.

Each of the educational shows your children watch on PBS has its own section on PBSKids.org . Find sing-a-long songs, sorting and counting games, bonus videos, and more.

CoolMath.com calls itself "an amusement park of math and more." Children can play online math games that help them with addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, decimals, money and more. CoolMath is geared toward ages 13 and up, but sister site CoolMath4Kids.com is appropriate for ages 3 through 12. CoolMath Games offers "brain training" games for all ages.

TIME for Kids

From the publishers of TIME magazine, TIMEforKids.com is loaded with fascinating articles, photos, and videos, covering politics, the environment, entertainment, sports, health, and more. TIME for Kids isn't as interactive as most of the other sites on this list, but it tackles subjects that are in the news in a kid-friendly way.

National Geographic Kids

Watch animal web cams, learn interesting animal facts, see and share photos of nature, learn about different countries, try science experiments, and much more on Kids.NationalGeographic.com . There's also a "Little Kids" section for the younger explorers in your home.

How Stuff Works

When your child wants to know why the sky is blue, how a tornado forms, or who invented the Chia Pet, head on over to How Stuff Works . The articles answer questions about cars, culture, entertainment, science, money, technology, and more. Games, quizzes, and videos round out the learning experience.

Starfall.com has been online since 2002. It's ad-free and offers learning games and activities for kids in pre-K through grade 3, covering math, reading, writing, and music, plus seasonal options.

The KIDZ Page

TheKidzPage.com has more than 5,000 pages of learning games and activities. Online coloring pages, jigsaw puzzles and word games are just a few categories on this massive site. Each holiday has its own section of activities and games to enjoy with your children.

One visit to Fun Brain and you'll want to bookmark it for your kids. Math, reading, online books, and learning games are just some of the site's many treats. Fun Brain caters to preschoolers through 8th graders.

If you don't mind TV characters, you'll find printables, games and other activities your young kids will enjoy at NickJr.com . The games allow your children to explore their creativity, play dress-up, learn new music, put together puzzles, and work on numbers and shape recognition.

Exploratorium

It's hard to narrow the list of science websites because there are so many helpful resources out there. But San Francisco's Exploratorium at the Palace of Fine Arts website teaches kids about science and art in new ways. The activities let kids tinker with gadgets, go below the sea, rocket into the galaxy, as well as learn about the science of gardening, animals, and cells, to name a few.

Highlights for Kids

The magazine for kids that's been around for more than 60 years also offers online ways to play, read, and craft with your children. The site includes matching games, art activities, animated stories and science experiments to help kids learn while having fun on the Highlights for Kids website .

Learning Games for Kids

The name of the site says it all. Learning Games for Kids is all about games that teach kids almost every subject you can think of. Word, spelling, social studies , brain, science , art, vocabulary, literature, and keyboarding games will take your kids on a learning adventure.

Old Farmer's Almanac for Kids

It's learning with a twist. The Old Farmer's Almanac for Kids features riddles, puzzles, a question of the day, a timeline of interesting history facts, sky events, and weather conditions to track at home with your children.

Fans of Mickey and friends will love visiting Disney Jr . Games, coloring pages, and videos are a few of the highlights. The games focus on memory, hand-eye coordination, color matching, and other important skills for developing minds.

By Apryl Duncan Apryl Duncan is a stay-at-home mom and internationally-published writer with years of experience providing advice to others like her.

Looking for strategies or have questions about how to support your child’s education? Ask our AI-powered assistant.

Parent Resources for Learning > Core Skills > 7 Play-Based Learning Activities for 3-Year-Olds

7 Play-Based Learning Activities for 3-Year-Olds

by Dr. Jody Sherman LeVos | Aug 10, 2023 | Core Skills

Pop quiz: What’s a better way to get a 3-year-old to learn, pop quizzes or playtime? 

If you guessed playtime, you’re right! Play-based learning activities for 3-year-olds help them develop the skills they need for school and life by tapping into their natural love of play . It’s a lot easier to get a toddler to play a learning game than to sit down and study—plus, they’ll actually learn more!

The Short Cut

• Learning activities for 3-year-olds can help them develop Core Skills , Creativity , Critical Thinking , and the other 5 C’s that help them thrive
• Play-based learning activities work well because kids learn more when they’re doing something they’re interested in
• Many of the best activities are simple and use everyday items from around the house

We’ve put together instructions for seven of our favorite play-based learning activities for 3-year-olds, plus some general tips, to get you started.

Why Learning Activities for 3-Year-Olds Work

Three-year-olds have a lot of energy, and they’re often eager to have new experiences. You can take advantage of their natural Curiosity (one of the 5 C’s) to help them learn valuable skills and see where they are in reaching their developmental milestones .

When kids do an activity they’re interested in, their brains literally light up on researchers’ scans. They learn more and retain more of what they learn, including important abilities.

For instance, hands-on activities —in which your child molds, cuts, sticks, sorts, or manipulates objects—help them develop motor skills. They also help them learn to follow directions for precision and accuracy, improving their Critical Thinking. Similarly, activities like putting puzzles together and playing with building blocks help develop reasoning skills and Creativity (another of the 5 C’s).

All of these abilities will help them as they get older and start working on more complex skills like writing and tying shoelaces.

The first six years of a child’s life are a critical time for brain development. The things they learn in this period help them perform well in school, excel in work, build healthy relationships, and live happy, fulfilling lives.

How Should I Teach My 3-Year-Old?

Keep It Simple

Parents sometimes think early learners need an elaborate game or flashy toy to hold their attention. But three-year-olds are fascinated by lots of simple things—different colors and shapes , how these colors change when you mix them (e.g., red and blue make purple), kicking a ball, storybooks about dinosaurs, baking cookies, and so on.

You don’t need anything complicated to create engaging learning activities for 3-year-olds. In fact, you’ll often be more successful if you keep it simple and use everyday items you already have.

Allow for Creativity

Life is full of right answers for 3-year-olds (and a lot of them, like “Can I hit someone when I’m mad?” are important!). But focusing on process over the finished product when you’re playing helps kids maintain their natural Creativity. If they decide to paint a blue dog, that’s OK! And if they choose to create a 10-legged cat, that’s great too. 

Give them time to play with no “right answers” to strengthen this important skill.

Be Flexible and Patient

Not every activity you try is going to be a hit with your kids. That’s OK!

At this age, your child is learning who they are and what they’re comfortable with. Exploring their likes and dislikes (which can change quickly!) is part of their development.

7 Top Learning Activities for 3-Year-Olds

1. number hunt.

What You’ll Need

• A set of fun items—from teddy bears to building blocks to balls, anything goes!
• Hide the items around a room
• Ask your three-year-old to find a set number of an item or a group of items (for example, ask them to find one teddy, two socks, and three balls)
• If this is too easy and they lose interest, try turning it into a race against the clock (can they find the items in just one minute?)
• If they find the game a little tricky, ask your child to search for one item at a time (e.g., one teddy, and then one sock, and then one ball) and progress from there

We love this activity because it helps develop working memory and numeracy, important areas of both Critical Thinking and Core Skills.

2. Pasta Necklaces

• Dry, uncooked cylindrical pasta
• Sealable plastic bags
• Food coloring
• A cotton thread or string (you can also use an old shoelace)
• Paper towel
• Beads (optional)
• Place the pasta into the plastic bags, then add a few drops of food coloring to each bag
• After adding the coloring, seal each bag and let your kids give it a good shake
• Line the trays with paper towels, pour the colored pasta on top, and allow it to dry
• While the pasta dries, cut the string so it’s the right length to make a necklace for your child and tie a knot on one end
• Once the pasta is dry, your child can slide the pasta (and beads if you use them) onto the string to make a necklace. When they reach the end of the string, tie the two sides together and you’re done!

This is a fun way to help your child practice counting (“How many pieces of pasta are you adding?”), develop fine motor skills, and explore Creativity.

3. Trace Yourself

• Have your child place part of their body (like their hand) on a sheet of paper
• Show them how to trace around it using a crayon
• Let them take over tracing and finish
• Encourage them to decorate their tracing however they’d like—maybe their hand needs eyes and a mouth!
• The simplest body part to start with is your child’s hands. Once your child has mastered tracing out their hands, they can progress to their feet.
• For even more fun, use a very large piece of paper and trace your child’s whole body. They can then add features and clothes.

This activity requires little prep and can be great for an easy afternoon when you’re in the mood for low mess levels. And it’s an excellent way to help your child practice their fine motor skills!

4. Make an Ocean

• HOMER Sail the Sea printable coloring page
• Crayons, markers, or colored pens
• Help your child color in the printable and discover the interesting creatures that live in our seas
• As your child colors, point out the letters and say their names, the sounds they make, and creature names that start with them (“S” makes a “sssss” sound, for “seahorse”)
• Try to get your child to make the letter sounds too
• Lean into process over perfection. The goal is to introduce your child to letters, sounds, names, and the links between them—if all they want to do is say “sssssss” and color, they’re still learning!
• To make things even more fun, give the creatures silly names and make up stories about them

This is a great activity for developing Core Skills like letter-sound recognition and fine motor skills!

5. Build a City

• Building blocks
• Get out the blocks and start making things, giving each building a name (“This is a candy store. This is an apartment building. This is a playground.”)
• Invite your child to name their own creations as they build alongside you
• If they’re enjoying the game, ask them to copy buildings you’ve made (“This is a candy store. Can you make one too?”)

This quick, simple activity helps develop Critical Thinking (copying your buildings), Core Skills (fine motor skills), and Creativity, all at once!

6. Watch It Grow

• HOMER printable seed growth tracker
• Crayons or pencils
• Large jar (glass or clear plastic)
• Fast-growing seeds (e.g. peas or beans)
• Paper towels
• An old milk or juice carton
• A ruler or measuring tape
• Ask your child to fill the jar with paper towels, then pour water onto the paper towels until they’re slightly damp
• “Plant” the seeds in the damp towels, positioning them close to the jar’s edge so you can watch them grow
• Use the printable to decorate the “watering can” (the milk or juice carton) and add a tag with the plant’s name
• Each day, make a fun moment of checking the jar and asking your child to note any changes you can track in the field notes (“Oh! We finished breakfast! Time to check the jar!”)
• If the paper towels dry out, add water

This activity introduces kids to how plants grow, stoking their Curiosity (another of the 5 C’s) as they explore the way the seed changes day by day!

7. Create Your Own Color Hunt

• Five objects that match each color of crayon, located in or around the house
• Optional: HOMER Make a Color Hunt printable
• Draw a square in the center of a piece of paper (or use the optional Make a Color Hunt printable)
• After drawing the square, use just one color to color it in
• Hand your child the paper and ask them to find five items in or around the house that have the same color
• For kids who aren’t counting yet , you can place items in a bucket or box and ask them to find all the items inside that match the color on the paper

This is a great activity to help with sorting, learning colors, and counting!

Continue the Adventures with Begin!

There are lots of ways to help your child stay entertained, engaged, and learning at home! These activities should help your 3-year-old develop a wide range of important skills.

And if you need more, don’t worry—we’re here to help. Sign up for our emails or check out our award-winning products, from kid-safe learning apps to hands-on activity kits , or try our Early Learner Bundle to see how it all comes together to give your child their best start to achieving their fullest potential.

Jody has a Ph.D. in Developmental Science and more than a decade of experience in the children’s media and early learning space.

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Dr. Jody Sherman LeVos

Chief Learning Officer at Begin

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75 Sanity-Saving Mess Free Toddler Activities To Do At Home

• Last Updated: February 6, 2023

By Sarah Peerless

Got a young kiddo at home? Suffering severe lockdown fever?  No time for mess?

Sounds like you need some easy mess free toddler activities to do at home to keep them busy (and you sane).

Covid-19 aside, if you have a little one aged 2, 3 or 4, there’s always reason to have a few good at home toddler activities up your sleeve.  (Err, hello Taylors of Harrogate coffee. Yes, I’m a coffee snob.)

You need simple no mess activities to keep your busy 2 year old toddler engaged and out of your hair. 

You need easy activities to do at home for your even busier 3 or 4  year old preschooler to keep them out of mischief, just for a few minutes.  Ideally with zero set-up and with things you already have at home. 

Heck, even easy at home activities to do with your kiddo when you so desire.

And mess free is the name of the game. At home toddler activities that absolutely DO NOT involve cleaning up some hideous mess. 

These are paint-free and glue-free toddler activities that won’t wreck your home….pinky promise.

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How do you keep a toddler busy at home?

To keep a toddler busy at home, you need to provide them the stimulation and activities that involve things they’re naturally curious about.  You’ve probably noticed that from the age of 2 (and even before), your toddler loves doing the following:

• stacking & sorting
• pouring & scooping
• ripping & throwing
• touching & exploring with their hands
• cutting, posting, packing & unpacking…
• figuring out how things work
• opening and shutting containers, doors, lids….
• getting wet and messy…
• move, move, move!

They’re not merely playing or actually trying to destroy everything they touch.  Whatever it may seem.  They’re learning through each and every activity they’re doing.  

Your 2, 3 or 4 year old is trying to master certain fine and gross motor skills, while also satisfying their desire to explore the world.   

This list of no mess toddler activities is naturally geared towards these tendencies to learn and explore.  It’s full of toddler at home learning activities and opportunities.   

The main aim is to keep your 2, 3 and 4 year old busy and engaged in a constructive way as possible.  Or in a destructive way, but under your terms!

For littles less than 2 years old, check out these simple activities for 18 month olds . 

Let’s define ‘easy’ & ‘mess free’ toddler activities 

My definition of a successful and easy activity for my toddler and preschooler is one which:

• is quick to set-up – let’s say 5 minutes max
• doesn’t require printing or laminating
• doesn’t need fancy or expensive supplies (most are things you already have at home or can easily get the shops) 
• keeps said toddler/preschooler busy for 15 – 30 minutes, often independently 
• can be easily adapted to kids a little different in age (my two are 15 months apart so that wasn’t too difficult)
• allow exploration and experimentation (i.e. hands on activities)
• has minimal clean-up or better still involves no mess at all

So these mess free toddler activities to do at home should tick all of these boxes.  They should be good to keep your little one going while you have a cup of coffee, feed your newborn, cook or catch up on emails…

Mess free toddler activities to do at home INDOORS

Most of these practice fine motor skills in one way or another – there really are endless possibilities – and you don’t have to look hard to see some very common themes…

#1 Posting toy cars into a large bottle

Small toy plus a hole just a little bigger = a mess free toddler activity that can last a loooong time…then there’s all the fun noise your little one can make shaking them around and around and around…

Another task is to shake them all out again… literally a good 30 minutes of fun for a busy 2 year old!

It’s always a good idea to check the toy will come out again, but in the case of toy cars into a 5 liter water bottle, I could easily have cut the bottle up to get them out.

EASY ALTERNATIVE ACTIVITY: plastic baby wipes container also work very well to shove toys (and most other things) into and then pull them out again.

If you’re little one loves vehicles of all shapes and sizes try these Easy Transportation Crafts & Activities .

#2 Dry pasta scooping & sorting

Dried pasta shapes and ice cube trays with a set of plastic measuring spoons.  Or use muffin pans or silicone cupcake liners.  I swear these get used for toddler play a million times more often than for baking. 

Or just use any small plastic container.

EASY EXTENSION : Amp up this activity by mixing different pasta shapes in one bowl and have your toddler or preschooler fill some compartments/cupcake liners just with bows, others just with noodles, others with shells etc.

You can also make this a little trickier by adding in some different means of transferring the pasta.  E.g. salad tongs, ladels or plastic tweezers for kids (check the recommended products section for these).

#3 Puzzle mix-up

Those lovely easy chunky puzzles that used to keep your little one busy as a 1-year-old, are now too easy.  But most other puzzles you end up having to help your toddler with, right?

So take those easy puzzles and dump all the puzzle pieces out together.  Then have your older toddler or preschooler put all the puzzles back together at once.

Easy and fun and normally a good 15-20 minutes of peace in our house!

#4 Blowing pompoms with straws

This is as simple as it sounds…. but in practice was a bit tricky for my 2 year old.  However, my 4-year-old particularly loved this one.

There are any amount of ways you can set this up. I placed a bowl on a chair the other side of our narrow play table and he spent ages blowing pompoms across the table and into the bowl…

This is fun STEM activity for toddlers too. Smaller pompoms move easier but more wildly, and the larger ones are heavier and harder to move, but easier to maneuver.

EASY ALTERNATIVE ACTIVITY: use cotton balls or scrunched up balls of paper to blow.  Can even be done without a straw altogether but for some reason, all kids seem to love straws…

Or why not turn this into a color-matching activity.  Place clear plastic cups on the table, then blow all the green ones into one cup, all the red ones into another and so on.  Mom Brite has a great post with more details.

#5 Cutting straws

Cutting is always a popular activity for toddlers and preschoolers.  They just love to cut anything, especially once they’ve got their first pair of scissors .   And so easy to do at home.

But instead of always using paper, get out some cheap plastic straws for your 2 year old.

(I know these are a big no-no environmentally so I’d like to add that we only use plastic straws for crafts and activities these days where they get used over and over…. very rarely for drinking).

Unlike paper, a straw is easy for a toddler to hold, and is long (or at least starts off long) so there’s less likelihood of them cutting their fingers off.  Bonus.

In addition, plastic straws seem to jump all over the place when cut – much to the hilarity of my two – which does mean a little bit of tidying up but does prolong the fun.

You could argue this isn’t strictly mess free, but grab a dustpan and brush and clean up will be done in a couple of minutes.  Or send your toddler off on a ‘straw treasure hunt’.  This normally does the trick in our house.

EASY ALTERNATIVE ACTIVITY: a good alternative to straws, that isn’t paper, is long narrow strips of thin cardboard, think biscuit or cereal box cut into strips.  Advantage or disadvantage is card doesn’t jump into the air when cut!

Paint-chip cards are also perfect.

UPDATE: Just this morning I found an old jumbled up ball of wool… good for nothing… unless, of course, you have a young kiddo who loves to cut!  Another virtually mess free toddler activity to try at home. 

My 3 and a 4-year-old spent a good half an hour cutting up wool… I’m sure that’ll come in handy for another toddler activity or craft.

(You’ll see me on ‘Hoarders’ any day now.)

#6 Matching tupperwares with their lids

Who said toddlers couldn’t be useful?! Got a cupboard in Tupperware hell?  Haven’t we all. 

Dump them all out and if you have any with lids on, take them off. Then get your 2 year old to match the lids back to the correct Tupperware.

(While you’re at it, you can then throw the ones no longer with a lid away – or add to them to the box of junk really useful stuff for the kids to play with…)

#7 Bottle top posting

There are an endless number of learning opportunities and educational activities for bottle tops (just write letters or numbers on them and you can conjure up all sorts of related activities).

But for this one, you just need LOTS of them and then something to post them into.  I used an old formula tin and cut a few different holes in the top for tops of different sizes to fit through. 

Such a simple mess free activity for 2 year olds at home, but sadly not noise free! 

Using a tin means that the lid makes a satisfying clink when it hits the bottom – that’s a double win for a busy toddler.  

#8 Tower building & then (obviously) tower destroying

Tupperwares, plastic cups, empty cans, small boxes, large ones… you name it!

If your kiddo who loves to line stuff up and for things to be very ordered, then finding lots of things exactly the same is the way to go if possible.  This describes my preschooler to a tee.

So stacking empty (and clean) cans into various orderly arrangements and then knocking them down is his idea of heaven.

Because he loves the knocking down so much, it definitely suits him to use cans, rather than plastic cups – unless you don’t mind them being ruined. 

(He was determined to stamp on the cups having knocked down his cup tower so I swiftly put those away and delved into my stash of empty tin cans.)

#9 Squeeze pouch lids & mini muffin tins

I’ve yet to meet any toddler mom who doesn’t use squeeze pouches once in a while. Great for those early weaning days and also for emergency snacks when out and about.   

No surprise that those pouch lids are worth saving.  They’re the perfect size to fit neatly into the molds of a mini muffin tin, as demonstrated above. Other plastic lids work well too.

Putting them and in and taking them out can keep a toddler busy for quite some time.  So start stashing lids and use them for this simple mess free activity for 2 year olds. 

#10 Rip up egg box cartons

Another activity for destructive little boys.  Babies and young toddlers love to rip stuff – so paper towel, magazines or newspaper.  But for the older toddler and definitely the preschooler that’s just too easy – and can create a lot of mess in minutes.

So for an almost mess free toddler activity and to burn off some destructive energy, egg box cartons are the way to go, my friend.

These ripped up pieces are then perfect for dump trucks, diggers and rubbish trucks to play in (yup, even the rubbish gets reused in our house).

EASY ALTERNATIVE ACTIVITY: old cereal and biscuit boxes.

#11 Tiny toy rescue & recapture

Tape some little toys (toy dinosaurs, cars, ponies, Playmobil characters… anything really) to the side of the fridge with painters/masking tape.

Rescuing the taped toys is an engaging activity for the younger toddler, who will need to work those fingers hard to peel the tape off.  But even the older toddler and preschooler will enjoy it.

I thought my two would be too old for this, but no!

They added in a recapture element and spent a good 30 minutes resticking their Playmobil figures upside down (as in photo above), then making them fall by gently peeling the tape back.  Then they’d re-rescue them and start all over again…

EASY ALTERNATIVE ACTIVITY: Alternatively, stick toys to a table with plastic tablecloth or to a tiled floor.

#12 Screw lids on and off bottles

Another simple no mess activity for toddlers at home similar to the tupperware one above, but this time with bottles and lids.  It’s a bit trickier to screw the lids back on, so excellent fine motor activity for toddlers.

So start hoarding bottles of all shapes and sizes. It’ll provide a 2 year old with hours of fun. 

And if you’re feeling a little creative and have a spare 5 mins, why not make this DIY twist-top board . 

#13 Painters tape peel

You may have noticed your little one attempting to unpeel the sticky top off wipe packets so here’s a simple mess free toddler activity that plays to this desire.

Tape painters tape onto the kitchen floor and allow your 2, 3 or 4 year old to remove.  At first you can make it really easy, with a very definite end to the tape for your toddler to easily grab on to.  As their ability improves, you can stick the tape down more firmly at either end.

EASY ALTERNATIVE & EXTENSION: Try sticking to different surfaces and at different orientations. 

Peeling the tape off the carpet or a rug makes for a satisfying sound and changes the tape from sticky to fluffy.  The removed, and then fluffy, tape kept my two entertained even longer.

Or try taping to the fridge so your toddler has to peel the tape off a vertical surface and use different muscles.

#14 Dot sticker shapes & patterns

Dot stickers are amazing for all sorts of things when it comes to 2, 3 and 4 year olds, especially when it comes to counting practice, number recognition and basic math… So we’ll save those ones for another day.

So for a simple no mess toddler activity focus just on the stickering itself, i.e taking the sticker off and sticking it in a certain place.  Then just draw a pattern or outline of something very simple and have your little one trace it with stickers.

My preschooler – above – asked for a square and a triangle, my toddler asked for a heart.

Such a simple activity for toddlers at home and soooo effective to keep little minds occupied.

#15 Decorate a cardboard box

Decorate a small cardboard box that can become a ‘special’ toy box, baby bed, tiny house or whatever else takes your toddlers fancy.

My two recently wanted to make our new Jack Russell puppies a dog house.  I quickly taped up a small cardboard box and cut out a door and window and my two toddlers  went to town for a good 20 minutes ‘decorating’ it. 

(AKA scribbling with pencils and crayons, stamping with ink stamps and stamping pens.)

Needless to say the puppies are not at all interested in sleeping in it and so my 4 year old decided he’d try to hang it in a tree… Then we switched the sprinkler on and mmm… it’s now even less likely to be used as a dog house. 

But since the real aim was just to keep the two terrors (not to be confused with the terriers) busy for a few minutes, I’m counting it as a win.

#16 Pipe cleaners and a colander…

…and thread. That’s it!  My two loved using the finished articles as hats for their ridiculously enormous teddies and have also pretended they’re enormous spiders.  Fun as a Halloween activity too?

EASY ACTIVITY EXTENSION: Make this activity a lot trickier by challenging your toddler or preschooler to push pipe cleaners through a sieve.

#17 Rubber bands & a can

What is it with toddlers and elastic bands?  Well, give them a job to do with them: putting them on to a can and taking them off again, simple.

Or if putting them on is too much of a stretch (see what I did there?!) then you can put them on and let your toddler take them off.

EASY ALTERNATIVE ACTIVITY: use a plastic bottle or empty cardboard tube for smaller bands or for bigger bands that can go around twice.

#18 Apple or potato poking

This is a fun mess free toddler activity for fall or any time of the year when you have an apple or potato to spare.

Use a felt tip pen to mark dots on an apple or potato and see if your toddler can stick a toothpick into the fruit/veg on the dot.  I was so surprised by how much my two loved this simple mess free activity.

A quick peel and said fruit/veg should still be good to use. 

(Having tried this with both apples and potatoes I’d recommend using the latter, since they’re less likely to bruise when dropped a few hundred times.)

EASY ACTIVITY EXTENSION: if your kiddo has a small toy hammer or you have a lightweight wooden meat tenderizing hammer, you can help your toddler hammer the toothpick in. 

You will probably need to help hold the toothpick (I did) but this is sure to keep them entertained as it’s quite tricky and you need to be gentle – something most toddlers or preschoolers are not good at!

#19 Trace simple pattern with pompoms

This is a little like the dot sticker patterns, but without the stickering part.  Draw any shape, and have your toddler line up pompoms or any other small loose item along the lines.

EASY ALTERNATIVE ACTIVITY: Pasta, cereal or small toys work really well too.

#20 CD/DVD stacking

Got a bunch of old CDs that skip every few seconds?  Haven’t we all… well if you have one of those CD stacker storage thingy-m-bobs then taking the CDs off and putting them back on again could well keep your toddler busy…

Just know that you’ll never be using them for music or film again.

EASY ALTERNATIVE ACTIVITY: this is not a direct alternative, but if you have old CDs in boxes that are destined for the rubbish then your kiddo is probably going to love just taking them out and putting them back in again.

It’s actually not all that easy for a toddler to get them in the right place so the box shuts nicely.

#21 Pompom transfer & sorting

Bunch of pompoms in a bowl, a muffin or mini-muffin tray and something to transfer them with.  Salad tongs, ladels or plastic tweezers or just a small spoon.

Sounds suspiciously like pasta scooping and sorting, right? Yup, that’s the beauty with toddlers and preschoolers; virtually the same activity, just with different tools!

Younger toddlers will love the transferring part to create pompom ‘cakes’.  (Stand by imaginary oven.)  Older toddlers and preschoolers tend to gravitate towards sorting colors… Whatever keeps them happy and busy goes as far as I’m concerned.

#22 Encourage toy mixing

As adults, it’s so easy to get caught up encouraging our kids to play with toys in a certain way.  But the mind of a 2, 3 or 4 year old is of course very different. Actively encouraging different toys to be played together leads to a huge number more ‘games’ that can be invented.

My preschooler loves his train set and has made endless additional bridges with duplo blocks and wooden blocks.  He’s made salt dough hills for the track to go around.  We’ve made cardboard houses too…

Mixing and matching those toys keeps it fresh – I highly recommend it.

#23 Marbles and cardboard tubes

Grab a few tubes, some marbles and then something to catch them in and let your toddler or preschooler play.

A very simple mess free activity for toddlers and preschoolers at home that involves a certain amount of problem-solving.  Getting the tube to stay up, and to position the cup, bowl or egg box in the right place to catch the marble and so on.

So a good one for lots of experimentation. 

(We found that egg box cartons work the best to catch the marbles as they don’t jump out as easily as from plastic bows or cups).

You could also make a more permanent marble run by hot gun gluing tubes to a big sheet of cardboard.  I wasn’t all that successful and my two just wanted to move the tubes all the time…

#24 Craft stick & block building

I saw this simple no mess activity on Frugal Fun 4 Boys and knew this would be a hit with my toddler, who loves to build!

If you click here you’ll see the different ways they build and balanced towers, using crafts sticks, blocks as well as plastic cups.  H was intent on the low, wide bridge and ramp pictured above.

Given there’s so much potential in this activity, I can see us returning to it again and again.

#25 Listen to stories on audiobooks

I was hesitant to include this as it’s not a very active toddler activity, but it’s very much no prep and no mess and my two love to listen to audiobooks.  Great for screen-free resting and relaxing, which we do every day after lunch.

We only got into this in a few weeks ago at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic when Audible started offering free audiobooks.  We’ve been listening to The Timeless Tales of Peter Rabbit & Friends and Winnie The Pooh ever since.  And are now signed up forever more…

#26 Sweetie game

What better way to introduce your toddler to a simple board game than with sweets? This is one you’re going to be actively involved in but is fun and no mess all the same.   

Instructions as follows:

• Draw a grid of squares or rectangles
• Each player takes a line. One end is the start, the other the finsih.
• Put your sweetie at the start 
• Roll the die and move your sweetie along the grid, according to the number
• When you’ve reached the end and are finished, you can eat the sweet!

Great for counting practice and everyone’s a winner. 

Indoor WATER PLAY activities for toddlers & preschoolers

Toddlers and preschoolers love to play with water .  Wait, I hear you say, that doesn’t sound mess free?!  Especially if you’re stuck indoors…

Even if you can’t get outside, these water-play activities shouldn’t get out of hand.

These activities are mostly to be carried out at the kitchen sink (or similar) or in the bath.  There are a couple which can be done at a table, well covered with a plastic table cloth.

For plenty of ways to keep little ones busy in the garden or backyard, wet and otherwise, try these simple and fun outdoor activities and play ideas .

#27 Pour and scoop water at the sink

Stool at the kitchen sink, sink full of warm water and some empty yogurt pots/tupperware with some measuring cups… Yes, this is exactly the same as playing with stacking cups in the bath.  Different location, different tools, completely different activity!

#28 Play with ice cubes in the sink

Toddlers and preschoolers alike just love ice. So an ice activity is a must once in a while and I’d definitely argue that this one is a mess free toddler activity, perfect for a 2, 3 or 4 year old.  It can keep my two busy for ages…

EASY ACTIVITY EXTENSION: Add some food coloring to the water before freezing for a bit of color or some pompoms for a hidden surprise.

#29 Wash plastic toys in the sink

As above but make out that your toddlers toys (battery-free of course) need a good scrub.  Let’s face it, you won’t need to ‘make out’ that they need a clean, in all probability they’re fairly grubby.

Just remember to be clear that ‘only Mom or Dad’ can put the dish liquid in though.  And then hide it unless your toddler has an insane amount of self-control.

#30 Play with non-bath toys in the bath

So not regular bath toys, but other water-friendly toys.  Think duplo, plastic animals, plastic characters etc.  Our rule is nothing wooden and nothing with batteries.

Building towers in the water is completely different to building them on dry land. Obviously Mommy because now it’s boat, not a house. Or a houseboat.  Or a submarine. I lose track…

#31 Bottle tops & pipettes

First, fill a few small cups with water – you can add a drop of food colors to each if you want so each cup of water is a different color.  Then lay some bottle caps and jar lids out on the table (preferably on a plastic table cloth or plastic tray, or both). 

Take a plastic pipette and show your toddler how to use it first – this can be quite difficult for a 2 year old.  My youngest struggled with this at first (see the easy alternative below) but now at 3 she’s got it nailed.

Then show them how to transfer water from the cup to the bottle lid – without it overflowing of course.

EASY ALTERNATIVE: if your toddler can’t manage to figure out the pipette, then you can do the same activity using a 1/4 teaspoon measuring spoon.  You need to use a small teaspoon otherwise those bottle tops overflow very quickly.

#32 Water transfer with pompoms

This activity is good fine motor practice for your little one and can be done at the sink or at the table. 

We’ve tried it at the kitchen counter, with a shallow oven dish full of water and a bowl of pompoms and then a few small bowls and cups.

Younger ones will just enjoy picking them up and squeezing them but an older toddler or preschooler can transfer water from the dish into the cups and bowls by squeezing the pompoms.  Just don’t set the cups up too far away from the dish to minimize water dripping too far.

Mess free SENSORY ACTIVITIES for toddlers at home

This post is all about easy mess free activities to do at home with minimal clean-up.  We don’t need to add to the craziness of life with toddlers do we?

Here are some clean sensory activities for toddlers that are totally mess free.

If and when you’re in the mood for letting your toddler get messy, try this bumper list of sensory activities for 1 year olds and up. 

#33 Create a textured walk

Toddlers love nothing better than to explore with their fingers, but also with their feet.  So in this easy mess free activity for 2 year olds create different sensory opportunities for them specifically for walking on.

They may also want to touch with their hands and crawl over them too but set it up primarily for walking.

Bubble wrap is always a favorite. Tape it to the floor and let your toddler loose! Jumping up and down on it will be a fun experience and will also burn some energy.   

EASY ALTERNATIVE: Rather than tape things to the floor you could set up a sensory bin specifically for walking in.  Simply add lentils or rice for your 2, 3 or 4 year old to walk over. 

#34. Twinkly light sensory bottle

You do need a large plastic bottle with a large opening for this one.  The bottle pictured originally had craft supplies in it but has been used for several different activities and play scenarios since.

Add battery operated twinkly lights to the bottle and screw shut.  A 5 liter water bottle might work too, depending on the battery pack size of the lights.

A fun at home toddler activity that’s safe for tiny tots and involves no mess whatsoever.

EASY ALTERNATIVE:  Add jingle bells and tinsel for a Christmas themed toddler activity or how about acorns and dried leaves during Fall?

For more seasonal sensory fun, try these festive Christmas sensory activities or these fake snow sensory bins .

#35. Water beads mess free toddler activity

Water beads are fun to play with but are not safe for under 3’s or any little one who loves shoving everything in their mouth.  But you can bag them up and make a colorful sensory bag in a jiffy.

This one does need a bit of prep as you need to soak the beads in water overnight.  Then pop in a ziplock back, seal shut with tape and you’ve now got a safe and mess free toddler activity that’s good for tiny tots too.

I tried this with my 10 month old twins (pictured is one of them).  It’s an easy and safe sensory activity for babies .

#36 Play with silks or dance scarves

Play silks/dance scarves make for a fun no mess toddler activity at home and there are so many different ways in which they can be incorporated into play.

Stuffing them into a box or  Oball and pulling them out will keep a 2 year old busy.  Older toddlers and preschoolers will love incorporating them into all sorts of costumes.  Play silks can become a cape or wings or used to create a sea or river in small world play. 

#37 Squishy sensory balls

I tried these squishy balls as a baby Easter activity , because they look like eggs. Sort of.  Regardless of the season, playing with these will keep a toddler who loves to fiddle and touch all the things well occupied.

Using a funnel, simply fill balloons with different dry materials, tie the top and off you go.  The flour filled balloon was my personal favorite –  it feels just like a stress ball, it’s so, so squishable.

My toddlers liked all of them of course.  We’ve tried corn kernels, rice, oats, beads, beans, sand – whatever could be fitted in, went in. Such a fun mess free activity for 2, 3 and 4 year olds and up.  (Including adults!) 

Minimal mess SENSORY ACTIVITIES for toddlers & preschoolers

Here are some dry messy play ideas with minimal mess.  The mess can be fairly well contained and swept up quickly.

Of course, with a toddler at the helm, things can get out of hand pretty quick.  So skip ahead if minimal mess activities are not mess free enough.

Remember to state those boundaries/expectations upfront!

#38 ‘Bake’ with playdough

I could say ‘anything’ with playdough because playdough never ever seems to get boring and can be used in a million and one different ways.  However, I  thought it more useful to name something specific.  So baking it is – a firm favorite and something we do almost weekly in our house.

Our equipment list of choice is:

• playdough, homemade or store-bought
• muffin pans
• silicon muffin cases
• cookie cutters
• toddler sized rolling pin
• cut straws (cake candles, of course)
• some kind of unit that will double as a pretend oven (we use a white plastic kitchen trolley – finishing the homemade play kitchen is still on my to-do list…)

This is a case of less is more – toddlers get easily overwhelmed with too much choice in the cookie-cutter department…

For a winning playdough recipe, mix the following together, heat gently and stir until you have a lump of the stuff – dead simple.  Even works when my 3 and 4-year-old are doing the measuring!

• flour – 2 cups
• salt – 1 cup
• cream of tartar – 4 tsp
• vegetable oil – 1 tbl
• food coloring – a few drops

That’s enough to make 4 different colored decent-sized lumps.

For a more permanent play dough like activity, salt dough crafts are fun.  They make great Christmas ornaments .  

#39 Moon sand sensory bin

Mix flour and oil together (any types will do, whatever you have to hand) in a ratio of 8:1 and you have some lovely soft and fluffy moon sand.

Put it in a large plastic container or crate – at least 40cm by 80cm (think underbed storage container) or use a sand or water table.  Then throw something in:  a bunch of sand toys, little diggers or cups and spoons or small plastic animals.   

Then let your toddlers scoop with it, smush it through their fingers and just play.

My two loved burying their plastic insects in a moon sand mound and then rescuing them with toy diggers… whatever floats their boat, right?!

#40 Rice bins

Very similar to above – a scooping and sensory play activity that is virtually mess free.  Remember, state the rules of play first and stick to them!

Cheap, uncooked rice in a large plastic container, as it is.  Or dyed if you want to get fancy (just soak in food colored water overnight).

You can take this one a bit further and tape some paper tubes to the side and add a funnel or too.

My toddlers loved to put a little dump truck under the tube, pour the rice down the tube and be incredibly excited to watch the truck collect their cargo.  Simple minds, remember!

EASY ALTERNATIVE: Instead of rice use, cereal or small pasta shapes.

TIDYING & CLEANING activities for toddlers at home (no mess)

Who said toddlers and preschoolers can’t be useful?!  If you haven’t got your kiddo involved in a few household activities at home yet, I’d urge you to, for a few reasons:

• toddlers and preschoolers love to feel useful at this age and love to help with things – capitalize on this because it can only last so long, right?
• although most activities will take long with a little one in two but at the same time said toddler/preschooler is busy and out of mischief
• they start to learn the importance of being tidy and responsible and other general life skills
• there are plenty of easy activities for toddlers to try at home that are mess free

Of course, they’re not going to get it 100% right but remember to praise anyway.  (And re-do if necessary.) 

Gradually you could build a few into your schedule and turn them into daily activities for toddlers at home.

#41 Cutting food up

Set your toddler up in the kitchen close by (this is obviously not to be done unsupervised) and hand them a normal eating knife or plastic salad knife .  I bought the latter especially for my toddlers to use.  They’re great for playdough too.

Fruit and veg that work well for us have been potatoes, cucumber and lettuce.  For the first two, cut them lengthways in half first so that they don’t roll around. 

Warning – things will end up very small – fine for cucumber but probably only good if you want mashed potatoes.

#42 Folding pajamas or other clothes

If you’re looking to introducing some fun and easy daily activities for your toddlers at home, then folding pajamas and night blankets is a good place to start. This is now firmly part of our morning routine. 

I do still lay them out so it’s easy for them to get started, but they both love this.  Racing to see who’s the fastest normally motivates my toddlers when they’re dwindling.

A winning mess free activity for toddlers at home that is useful too.

#43 Washing up

Well, if they can play at the sink, why not take it one step further and get them to wash up?

Not glasses, china or sharp knives, obviously… but their own plastic crockery and cutlery, plastic cooking utensils and small metal saucepans are well within a 3 or 4-year-olds capability.  Might be a stretch for a 2 year old but will keep them busy!

They’re probably going to spend much of the time just playing, scooping and pouring the soapy water, but that’s ok. 

If it gives you 15 minutes to clean up the kitchen or think about what to get out the freezer the next day then I’d count that as a win.

 #44 Sorting the clean cutlery back into the cutlery draw

I.e. putting the forks back with the forks, the spoons back with the spoons and so on… A classic matching activity for toddlers to do at home that ticks the mess free box.

#45 Breaking spaghetti

I think you can see that my daughter loves this one!  Super simple virtually no mess toddler activity to do at home with your 2, 3 or 4 year old and surprisingly time-consuming.

It can take little hands a good 10 minutes or so to break up enough spaghetti for a meal for 4.  It also minimises the mess of your toddler or preschooler eating spaghetti if you get them to break it up nice and short…

#46 Toy clean up

If you’re looking for a simple tidyng and cleaning activity for toddlers, then packing away toys is a good one.  The sooner they learn to take care of and keep their toys organised the better. Easier said than done but worth the effort. (I think!)

You can make toy tidying fun too, by singing songs, racing cars onto the shelves and so on.  It also keeps little ones busy, hence is definitely an ‘activity’ in itself.

It can take a good 15-20 minutes plus an additional 5-10 minutes while your toddler or preschooler stops to play with the toys they’re meant to be tidying up. A fun activity that’s all about tidying up the mess.  Win win!

Mess free toddler CRAFT activities to try at home

With a bit of extra time and on my hands, I do love painting (or fingerpainting ) and doing crafts with my toddlers.  

But crafts don’t have to involve sticky glue or paint…. Here are some crafty, creative and simple mess free toddler activities to try at home.

If and when you are in the mood, here are some easy arts and crafts we’ve tried over the years.  And for paint, check these recomended baby-safe non-toxic ones .

#47 Make a pipe cleaner bracelet

Wonderfully engaging toddler or preschooler activity for girls and boys… pipe cleaners are perfect for threading activities because they’re dead easy to poke through a bead without a needle.  Pipe cleaners are super useful for all sorts of toddler crafts .

Related post:  STUPIDLY EASY pipe cleaner spider craft for toddlers (no prep & no mess!)

EASY ALTERNATIVE:  thread noodles or buttons onto shoelaces.

#48 Sticker birthday or occasion card

Everyone loves a homemade card from someone special, particularly when that someone is knee high to a grasshopper.  Making a homemade Christmas card or two is something we’ve gotten into. It’s a favorite Christmas tradition of ours.

So for a very simple mess free craft activity, your toddler can simply decorate a blank card with stickers.  Write a cute message inside and you’re done. 

If and when you don’t mind a bit of mess and you want to make a cute personalised card for someone, check out these handprint birthday card ideas .

#49 Paint with marbles

This may sound a little curious, but painting with marbles is fun process art which can also yield some lovely results.  And yes, it’s a completely mess free activity for 2, 3 and 4 year olds that you can do easily at home.

Simply line a large tray with paper, add dollops of paint (I used our everyday child friendly paint), chuck in some marbles and get them to moving.

If you do want to try and keep the artwork afterwards, I’d advise using some decent slightly heavier weight paper.  Also choose the colors you use carefully, since they will end up mixing.  

To see all the various works of art we created check out the full post here:  Marble rolling: easy art activity you’ll actually want to keep)

#50 Contact paper window mosaics

Tape some contact paper to the window and then your toddler can decorate it with tissue paper shapes, feathers, pipe cleaners and other materials you have to hand. 

A fun mess free activity for toddlers at home that creates cute window decor you can theme to the season.  Pictured is a fall-inspired window mosaic from Mom In The Six which uses faux leaves. 

More simple Fall themed crafts for 2 and 3 year olds here . 

#51 Paper plate wreath craft

Another easy craft activity for toddlers with no mess whatsoever and takes mere minutes to prep.  Yet again, it involves a sheet of stickers or two!

Simply cut a circle out of the paper plate and add stickers of choice.  Of course, wreathes are normally assoicated with Christmas, Easter and Fall.  For some themed wreath inspiration check these toddler Christmas crafts and these Easter crafts .

#52 Make paper airplanes

Since he flew his very first paper airplane as a 2 year old, my eldest hounds me for them day and night. Well, that’s what it feels like! Now his little sister has found the love…

If you’re not sure how to make one, try this simple video tutorial. I tried lots of other that said they were easy, but that was the only one I could follow with said toddler hot on my heels.

#53 Make a simple crown

Toddler love making hats.  And pretending to be a princess, a king, a knight and so on… So for a simple mess-free toddler activity at home, make a simple crown for them to decorate.  The fun doesn’t end once it’s decorated, then it’s time to play!

Don’t be put off by the making part – all you’re making is a headband out of card with some zigzag edges.  Simply size it to your toddlers head and secure with a stapler.  Just be sure to staple so the flat side of the staple is against your childs head.

Here’s an easy paper crown tutorial if my instructions are a little too basic.

#54 Make a noodle necklace

Another deja vu… yup, more jewelry and another threading activity for your toddler or preschooler.  We painted our noodles first but totally not necessary.  Then threaded using some decorative twine – stiff-ish and easy enough for little fingers to thread.

EASY ALTERNATIVE: thread Cheerios for an edible and (probably) short-lived necklace.  Or for a similar non-jewelry toddler activity, stick some spaghetti, toothpicks or wooden skewers into a lump of playdough and create a noodle or cheerio tower by threading them on.

#55 Mess free painting

Tape a piece of paper to a large chopping board, add blobs of paint and then loosly, but securely, cover with plastic wrap.  Then your toddler can paint at home, indoors, mess free.

EASY ALTERNATIVE: Slip paper into a ziplock bag with paint and seal shut.  Use tape if your toddler is good at opening ziplocks!

For more simple, minimal mess toddler crafts of a themed nature, try:

• Fun Fathers Day crafts for toddlers
• Cute Valentines crafts for toddlers to make
• Adorable Mothers Day Crafts for toddlers
• Natvitiy crafts for kids
• Fun & easy Easter crafts for 3 year olds

Simple MUSIC activities for toddlers at home

Music can get everyone out of a funk.  Toddlers and preschoolers are no different so for a different type of no mess activity, try something musical.

#56 Action songs

There are so many fun action songs that will entertain little ones, particularly a 2 year old who’s still experimenting with basic movements like clapping their hands, bending down to touch their feet etc.

Lots of these will also help expand your little one’s vocab and coordination. But best of all they’re plain good fun as well as being very obviously no mess.

Here are some fun and easy action songs you’re sure to know:

• Heads, shoulders, kness and toes
• Row, row, row your boat
• Hokey Cokey

#57 Have a boogie

There’s nothing cuter than the waggling hips of a toddler.  But this one is definitely not just for the onlooker.  Little kids love to have a boogie and normally at 2, 3 or 4 years old have yet to become shy about it, especially if they’re at home.

#58 Make plastic bottle maracas

Add different materials to plastic bottles to make DIY maracas for your toddler. 

Rice, dried pulses and uncooked pasta, sand make interesting and varied sounds.  You can use bottles of different sizes and experiment with the sounds by filling them to different levels.  Seal shut with tape if you need.

Then let your 2, 3 or 4 year old play and experiment with their very own homemade maracas.

#59 Play With Jingle Bells

This one is as simple and easy as the title suggests… your toddler will love shaking and playing with jingle bells. You could also make a jingle bell maraca or use them in your sound experiement, as outlined above.

#60 Play the pot and pans

Use wooden spoons and other baby-safe kitchen utensils as drum sticks.  Upturned pots, pans, plastic containers and old shoe boxes are the drums.

This one never fails to entertain my particularly boisterous and noisy toddler! An easy at home toddler activity that keeps said 2 year old entertained, with zero mess.

EASY ALTERNATIVE & EXTENSION: Experiment with larger items, like teaspoons, metal bottle lids, onions etc in different containers, like a lidded  sauce pan or tupperware and create all sorts of different ‘noise makers’.

Extend this for older toddlers and preschoolers by discussing and testing which ones will make the loudest noise, which will make the most soothing noise and so on.  A simple mess free activity that’ll get them thinking.

#61 Try a dance routine with Just Dance

This one is more for older toddlers and preschoolers as the routines are a little tricky to follow. Let’s just say, I struggle.  But it’s good for a laugh and a 2 year old is sure to still enjoy it.

Wacka Wacka is our favorite Just Dance track at the moment.

#62 Musical statues (or freeze dance)

A classic party game that definitely shouldn’t be reserved for special celebrations and definitely should be started in the toddler years.  Play some music, hit pause, and everyone must stand like a statue or freeze. 

This can also be themed to the season too.  The Monster Freeze would be a fun Halloween party activity .

PRETEND PLAY at home toddler activities 

Toddlers love to play out and recreate scenarious they see in everyday life.  You don’t need many props, as these fun mess free toddler activities prove.  They have an amazing imagination so combine that with a few items you have at home and you should be all set.

#63 Teddy bears picnic

Here’s another classic activity that will never grow old.  Simply get your toddler to gather their favorite teddies and treat them to their very own picnic. Use your toddlers cups and cutlery and add any toy food items. 

If you’re short of anything, don’t worry. Your 2, 3 or 4 year olds imagination will be more than sufficient.  They can help their teddies to sip their tea and eat their fairy cakes.

Remind those teddies of their table manners! 

#64 Build a fort

With large cushions, sofa cushions and blankets build a fort with your toddler.  They’ll love crawling in and out, taking their teddies inside and may even want to take nap their. 

There may be a few cushions to tidy up after, but in the grand scheme of things, I definitely class this as a mess free toddler activity.

#65 Cooking and baking

It’s no secret that toddlers love to pretend to cook and bake.  There is an abundance of choice when it comes to play kitchens and toy food.  But you don’t need to rush out and buy anything for your little one to enjoy this mess free toddler activity.

A small coffee table works well as a toy oven, as does a large cardboard box.  Cut out a flap of cardboard to create your oven, complete with door.  Or simply use a small table with stove tops for your kids to pretend to cook on.

#66 Picnic in the garden or on the carpet

Make preparing for and eating lunch or a snack a fun activity in itself. Pack up food, crockery and a blanket (or foam floor mat as pictured) into a hamper or your toddlers backpack.  Oh yes, take the potty too if you’re going from the house!

#67 Go on a bear hunt

Going On A Bear Hunt is a fun book that my toddlers really enjoy.  In this fun no mess toddler activity to do at home you’re going to act out the book.   My two like to nominate one of their teddies as the bear to be hunted. 

Use an old toilet roll as your monocular and off you go. (Or check this list of toilet roll crafts if you want to make binos.) 

EASY ALTERNATIVE: You can simplify this and just make it a hide and retrieve game.  My two love to go on a dino hunt.  I hide their toy dinosaurs around the garden.  (They’re foraging in the jungle.)  And then they go find them. Simple!

A fun dinosaur activity for indoors and out that involves no mess and takes minutes to prep.

If your toddler or preschooler loves these prehistoric crestures, check out these fun and easy dinosaur crafts and activites .

#68 Make a play house

Cut doors and windows out of a gigantic cardboard box and turn it into a play house.  Decorate or not, as you please.

MOVEMENT GAMES & activities for toddlers at home

Kids of all ages need to move, toddlers perhaps more so than most.  While there are plenty of activities that keep their hands busy and mind engaged there are plenty more that involve full body movement.  These will help develop gross motor skill development, while getting all those wiggles out.  

Several of the mess free activity ideas above, and most of the music activites, involve movement.  But this section here is dedicated fun movement games and activities.  

Not only are these no mess, they’re also no prep too.

#69 Bean bag toss

Learning to catch is a skill which your toddler can start to learn around 2 years old. This simple gross motor activity helps develp visual processing skills and descrimination.  Hand-eye coordination and a good grasp is then needed to catch. 

A simple and fun gross motor activity for toddlers at home, indoors, as long as you have a clearish space and nothing precious in the firing range.  

This would also be fun game for a little one’s birthday party .. 

#70 Balloon keepie-uppies

Playing with balloons is a fun activity in itself. If you have young kids at home, always have a stash of balloons somewhere.

In this easy energy-busting toddler activity to play at home, the aim is simply to keep the balloon in the air.  This is a surprisingly difficult task and another that’s good to develop visual processing, coordination.  It’s also a tiring but fun activity for toddlers and sure to be a hit.

#71 Torchlit hide and seek

This is an absolute favorite game of my two – they ask for this one on a regular basis. 

The only restriction is that it needs to be done once it’s dark outside, so no good for long summers days… Simply hide teddies around the house, in obvious places. Then your 2, 3 or 4 year old must go and hunt for them using their flashlight.

#72 Balloon waddle

Another fun balloon activity, the one more challenging than the last.  See how far your toddler can walk across the room, while holding a balloon between their legs.

#73 Shape tag challenge

A fun way to learn and practise shapes while burning off some energy.  Call “square” and your toddler must find and tag something at home that’s square shaped.

More fun and minimal prep indoor games, try these gross motor activites for 1, 2 and 3 year olds .

#74 Green light, orange light, red light

In this fun movement game, your toddler is driving their imaginary car, zooming around according to the color of the traffic light. 

Call “red light” and they must stop, dead still. “Orange” and they can move slowly and “green”, you guessed it, top speed.

Such a simple activity that you can wear your toddler out with, while staying at home.

#75 Ball wall

Setting up the ball wall does take a few minutes, but is guranteed to keep your toddler occupied for quite some time. 

The ball wall consists of plastic balls, such as ball pit balls or pingpong balls, attached to the wall using masking or painters tape.  Roll it into loops, sticky side out, so one side sticks to the wall and the other to the ball. 

Attach as many balls as you have time for at a height on the wall that makes it tricky, but not tricky, for your 2, 3 or 4 year old to reach.  At the other end of the room, place a bucket.

The game is to grab a ball from the wall and run across the room to place it in the bucket.

Recommended toys to engage toddlers at home

I’m a big believer in less is more when it comes to toys. There are so many toddler toys on the market that don’t keep them busy for very long.  The best toys are ones that can be played with in an open ended way, which means your little ones will continue to find new and interesting ways to play with them.

This is an additional section I’m adding now that my 2 eldest, pictured frequently throughout this no mess toddler activity post, are at school. These are toys the’ve loved since around the 2 year old mark and still play with now, at 6 and 7.

#76 Duplo blocks

There are an endless number of houses, animals, vehicles and towers that can be built with simple building blocks.  Duplo blocks are simple enough for toddlers as young as 2 years old to handle.  That’s when mine started playing wtih Duplo.  I’ve still not put them away, 5 years later…

#77 Montessori Music Instruments

Toddlers love making noise, sorry music. That doesn’t change as they move through the preschooler and early school years!  

Playing with these simple instruments works on hand-eye coordination and other fine motor skills while allowing your little one to experiment with rhythm.  And it’s just plain fun!

Click to purchase music set on Amazon 

#78 My First Purse

I’m not much into purses, but at around 2 years old, my daughter got into them big time.  She just loved packing and repacking her purse of the moment. This is still a favorite activity of hers, 4 years later…

Click to purchase My First Purse set on Amazon 

#79 Farmers Market Set

Click to purchase farmers market set on Amazon 

#80 Shopping cart

Great to accompany the farmers market set, but can be used for a whole host of other things too.  Every toddler needs something to carry all their stuff around in.  Soft toys, books, duplo…. you name it, everything will be transported in this cute trolley.

#81 Magformers

Another fun building toy that has kept our two busy for hours over the years.  This one has the interesting USP of being magnetic, so towers and shapes are built by sticking pieces together. 

Click here to purchase Magformers on Amazon

An advantage over the Duplo and other more traditional building blocks is that it packs down small and comes with a cute carry bag, making this an ideal toy to take when traveling.

For more toy recommendations, try these posts:

• Best toys for 1 year old baby girls
• Best outdoor toys for 1 year olds

Summary SUPPLY LIST for mess free toddler activities

Here’s a list of everything that you’ll need to do these no mess activities at home:

• kitchen implements – salad tongs, ladles, wooden spoons, measuring spoons
• whiteboard/dry erase markers + whiteboard (though the latter you can do without)
• elastic bands
• cocktail sticks
• plastic straws
• masking/painters tape
• printer paper
• crayons, coloring pencils

To add to this – here’s a list of things I’ve begun hoarding in order to use in other mess free toddler activities:

• bottle tops
• toilet rolls
• cardboard tubes from kitchen towel rolls, foil and wax paper
• cardboard boxes of all shapes and sizes (if too big to store I flatten them for use for painting projects)
• old tupperwares
• used spice jars

Recommended products for these toddler activities 

And lastly, a few specific items to purchase if you don’t already have. Below are all the links to the recommended products that are included in various places throughout this list of easy mess free toddler activities at home.

All these links are ‘affiliate links’, which means that if you click on one and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

• pipe cleaners
• dot stickers
• toddler scissors
• toddler sized rolling pins and playdough tools
• colored and natural wood craft sticks
• pipettes and other fine motor tools
• jumbo beads
• plastic salad knives (or other kid-friendly knives)

Tips for doing toddler activities at home (for preschoolers too!)

1. be realistic.

If your kids are only 2 or 3 then don’t bargain on more than 20-30 minutes before it’s time to move onto something else.  Even at 4, staying content to do one activity for more than 30 minutes is a stretch, although there have been a few activities which have done the trick.

2. Let your child lead the way

Don’t be restrained by the exact way your toddler is meant to play or do the activity. If he or she comes up with a variation of ‘the right way’ and it’s safe and engaging and keeping them busy, then just go with it.

3. Simple is always best

If your toddler finds something too difficult and is getting frustrated, don’t push it.  Either adjust to make it easier if possible or move on to something else.  I still continue to be amazed at quite how simple things need to be.

4. Keep open-minded

Some of these hands on activities for toddlers might sound the bees knees and get zero love from your toddler… because it’s going to happen.  Don’t be disheartened!

While others you might be a bit skeptical about and are an instant hit.  And you’ll keep coming back to them again and again….

As the saying goes, you just never know until you try.

5. Set and state any necessary boundaries first

There are couple of activities to do with toddlers that could get messy if no boundaries are set.  Or if your toddler is not good at sticking to them.  This can take a bit of practice!  (See above photo…)

Clearly stating the rules and then a firm ‘if we can’t stick to these rules then we’ll have to put these things away’ has worked pretty well for us. Then, of course, you need to stick to what you say.

6. Safety first

Hopefully, this goes without saying, but for any at home toddler activities that involve small parts, watch your little one carefully.  If your toddler is on the younger side and still loves to put stuff in her mouth, then skip those activities altogether.

Adjusting easy toddler activities at home to different ages

Always keep it simple – so set the difficulty level of the activity to the youngest.  Then adapt as you go along. 

Given that it’s through play, that toddlers learn, this post lists toddler learning activities at home.  However, you can easily add in a specific learning concept, such as counting, letter or number recognition in to the mix and turn them into more ‘educational’ activities for toddlers at home.

Do I have to entertain my toddler all day?

Toddlers are pretty good at entertaining themeselves, given the right environment, tools and hands on opportunities. You don’t need to ‘entertain’ them as such, but rather provide them with these opportunities.

This list of easy and fun toddler activities at home will help you do just that.

I started this post back in lockdown, knowing that many people had a sudden need to keep their young toddler busy as a result of lockdown.  Because all the “sanity-saving nurseries are shut”, as a dear friend put it.

Keeping your toddler busy at home is a skill that can be learned!

Keeping 2, 3 and 4 year olds busy with easy activities is certainly not a skill I was born with.  (Like a bunch of other things I kind of presumed would come easily as soon as I became a mom. Silly me.)

But with no playgroups, daycare, softplay, toddler groups or tots classes of any kind where we lived in this beautiful corner of the African bush, I got plenty or practice. 

I got a handle on what makes their little brains tick and how to bust that energy, all while maintaining a certain level of sanity.

(Most days.  As long as the Taylors hasn’t run out.)

So for all those of you who are suddenly or not so suddenly on the hunt for easy mess free activities to do with your toddler at home, you’ve come to the right place.

Ready to try some mess free toddler activities at home?

I hope that’s given you a good few ideas to keep your toddler or preschooler busy at home  and give you a little peace.  I’m sure before you know it you’ll be coming up with more ideas of your own!

You’ve probably figured out along the way exactly what your little one loves doing and gravitates towards.  Remember there’s actually a very real need to practice these things. This is how toddlers and preschoolers master new skills.

So instead of just saying “no”, “don’t do that” and “don’t touch that”, hopefully, this list will give you the means to offer your child that need in a way that you are ok with. 

So pick and choose from these mess free toddler activities at home.  You’ll also begin to see how you can easily adapt activities to the materials you have on hand. 

You can also easily turn many into more specific educational activities.  For example, you can include letter and number recognition dependent on the age and stage of your toddler. 

There are so many possibilities!

Enjoy these special stage of your toddlers development.  And good luck!

_______________________________________

Looking for more preschooler or toddler activities? Check out these posts now:

• 50 Easy Easter Bunny Arts & Crafts Ideas For Toddlers 
• 29 Scarily Easy Skeleton Crafts for Kids
• CRAZY EASY pipe cleaner spider craft for toddlers 
• 41 Easy Christmas Tree Arts and Crafts for Toddlers
• FREE 3d paper Christmas ornament templates for kids

Useful stuff? Want to save it for later?  Want to share with other moms? Click above or pin this image:

Got any comments or questions?

I’d love to here from you.  (Your email address will not be published.)

Or contact me direct at [email protected]

Want to dig a little deeper? Check out these other related posts:

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50+ Fun Ideas & Activities for a 4-Year Olds Birthday Party

50 Best activities for 18 month old toddlers at home

17 Simple tactics to stop your baby or toddler from climbing out of the crib

DIY twist-top boards: fine motor & fun learning for little ones (using trash you have at home!)

35 Simple Monkey Crafts & Activities for Preschoolers

A little about me.

Hi, I'm Sarah

Mom of four outrageously gorgeous Littles.  Yup, four!  The twins are now two and that title still brings me out in a cold sweat… Yet I’m just as determined to give them the best without losing my mind.  I reckon it’s possible!  Most days.  

I love a challenge and have to find out they ‘why’, ‘what’ or ‘how to’  –  there are rather a lot of these when it comes to kids… 

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