When the kids are full of energy and the house suddenly feels a little too quiet, it’s time to get creative
Whether it’s a rainy afternoon, a lazy weekend or you’re simply looking for something fun to do together, these easy at-home activities will keep the whole family entertained.
From painting afternoons to building cardboard castles, these ideas are simple, affordable and a great way to spend quality time together. So gather the craft supplies, clear the kitchen table and let the creativity begin.
Also read: Expert advice on how to talk to your kids about coping with uncertainty
Painting afternoon
Bring out the paints, brushes and paper and let creativity run wild. There are no rules here — kids can paint their favourite animals, dream houses or colourful abstract art. You can even turn it into a mini gallery afterwards by hanging everyone’s masterpieces on the wall.
Make friendship bracelets
A classic craft that never gets old. Grab some colourful thread or beads and let the kids create bracelets for their friends, siblings or parents. It’s simple, relaxing and a great activity to keep little hands busy.
Design your own T-shirt
Instead of throwing out old clothes, give them a new life. Use fabric markers, paint or iron-on patches to design a completely unique T-shirt. Kids can draw their favourite characters, patterns or even write their names across the front.
Build a cardboard castle
Before you recycle those delivery boxes, turn them into something magical. With a little imagination (and maybe some tape and markers), cardboard boxes can become castles, forts, rockets or secret hideouts. Let the kids decorate their creation with windows, flags and doors.
Create a family scrapbook
Print out family photos and spend an afternoon putting together a scrapbook. Add drawings, stickers, colourful tape and handwritten notes about your favourite memories. It’s a lovely keepsake that everyone can look back on later.
Draw the same picture challenge
Turn drawing into a fun competition. Pick a picture from the internet and have everyone try to recreate it on their own page. Once everyone is finished, compare the results and vote for the best drawing. The winner gets a small prize (or bragging rights for the day).
Make homemade slime
Slime is always a hit with kids and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Mix together a few simple ingredients and let the kids experiment with colours, glitter or beads. It’s messy, stretchy fun that can keep them entertained for ages.
(Tip: lay down newspaper first – things might get a little sticky.)
Decorate jars or plant pots
Turn ordinary jars or plant pots into colourful works of art. Use paint, stickers, glitter or ribbons to decorate them however you like. Once they’re finished, they can be used as pencil holders, mini planters or cute decorations for the house.
If you try any of these ideas, we’d love to see them. Tag @whatsondubai so we can see your family’s creative masterpieces.
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