Screen-Free Ideas to Keep the Kids Busy During Spring Break at Home

Believe it or not, spring break is just about here. While many families will be hitting the road (or the skies), we know others plan to stick close to home. That means keeping kids entertained (and off of screens, at least some of the time) so everyone can enjoy a relaxing spring break. 

Take charge of unscheduled time! If you are looking for fun things to do at home with the kids, this list of screen-free activities, cooking projects, crafts and more should keep the kids busy and entertained. 

Get outside

Fresh air can work wonders for restless kids (and parents), even when the forecast isn’t perfect. With a little creativity, your backyard or neighborhood can turn into a space for messy play, imaginative projects and hands-on learning. These easy ideas make it simple to step outside and keep kids happily engaged, no screens required.

• Rain in the forecast? Try these fun playgrounds perfect for some puddle-jumping fun. When the clouds part and the sun shines, head to one of these adventure playgrounds or take in the view while the kids play at one of these gems. 
• Spring is the perfect time to head to a local farm or petting zoo and say hello to fuzzy, sweet baby animals. 
• Experience some magic and whimsy exploring tree houses, forts and hobbit houses. 
• Rethink your backyard (and start getting ready for summer) with these awesome outdoor play-space ideas.
• Buy some seed packets or vegetable starts and help the kids to plant their own veggie patch.

Get active

When kids have energy to burn (which is pretty much always), a little movement can go a long way toward saving the day. Whether you’re stuck inside or dodging spring showers, these simple ideas get kids moving and having fun. 

• Keep the kids active on rainy days with these fantastic ideas from a preschool teacher. 
• Sometimes the weather in the Pacific Northwest is not ideal during spring break. Head to one of these great indoor activities around Seattle and the Eastside, or one of these indoor playgrounds around Puget Sound. 
• Send the kids on a nature scavenger hunt in your yard or around the neighborhood. 
• Looking for a fun, new activity? Give rock climbing a try! 
• Wear them out with one of these energy-busting obstacle courses that can be done inside or outside the house. 

Get cooking

When you need a change of pace, head to the kitchen. Cooking with kids is part activity, part life skill and a great way to fill time in a meaningful (and delicious) way. Whether they’re measuring, mixing or taste-testing, cooking invites kids to get hands-on and feel proud of what they create.

• Heading out for the day? Pack one of these creative spring lunches, with plenty of options for kid helpers to get involved. 
• Making a list for your next backing project? Head to Trader Joe’s for these must-buys (and don’t forget to swing by Grocery Outlet for some deals too!). You’ll be baking up a storm in no time. 
• Turn breakfast or brunch into a fun cooking project with some seriously delicious pancake variations.
• Making a pie is a delish way to spend any afternoon. Give one of these recipes a try, and let the kids take the lead on this yummy no-bake cream cheese pie (it’s so good). 

Get crafty

When the day calls for something quieter (or you just need everyone to reset), break out the art supplies. Crafting gives kids a chance to slow down, get creative and make something all their own. These ideas are perfect for filling an afternoon and letting imaginations take the lead. Bonus: Many of these ideas are easy to clean up, especially when you take the creativity outside.

• Get creative and make one of these ooey-gooey slime recipes. 
• Celebrate the beauty of spring with outdoorsy crafts and activities. 
• Try one of these outdoor art projects that can be created in your backyard — and cleaned up with a swish or two of your garden hose. 
• Don’t take out the recycling just yet! Building with cardboard can keep kids busy, and result in some cool creations. 
• Order one of these clever kits today and pull it out when you need a special at-home activity during spring break. 
• While board and card games are not exactly a craft project, they are a great way to do some creative thinking and problem-solving, all while spending time together. 

Editor’s note: This article was first published several years ago and was updated most recently on March 23, 2026, with new screen-free ideas by ParentMap’s content editor, Kari Hanson.