Some spring breaks we stay home, some we hit the road. The older our kids get, the more we need to take advantage of school breaks to take trips because as kids get into middle and high school, they can’t miss just any old school day. Spring break is the perfect time for the whole family to spend quality time together and make great memories. With a little planning and creativity, you can keep your kids busy with fun activities that will entertain and educate them. Here are some great ideas for keeping kids busy during spring break.

Tips for Keeping Kids Busy During Spring Break

When you’re staying home for spring break, the days can get long and the kids can get stir crazy. Here are some ways to inspire them to create their own fun. Do one of two a day and the week just flies by!

Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt is a fun way to keep kids entertained and active during spring break. You can create a list of items for them to find in the backyard, local park or even in the comfort of your own home. Kids will have a great time problem-solving and working together to find the items on the list.

Board Games

Board games are a classic way to spend quality time with the family. They are also a good idea for keeping kids occupied during spring break. Dust off some old favorites or introduce your children to some new ones. Board games can help teach kids important skills like strategy, logic and critical thinking.

Have a Movie Night

Movie night is always a great activity for the whole family. You can make it extra special by having a themed night, like a superhero movie marathon or a classic film festival. Pop some hot dogs or make some fun recipes, and enjoy a cozy night in with your family.

Art Projects

Art projects are a perfect opportunity for kids to express their creativity and learn new skills. Set up a dedicated art space in the living room or backyard and let your kids create their own art projects. You can provide them with materials like toilet paper rolls, paper towel rolls, pipe cleaners, pool noodles and hula hoops, and watch their imaginations soar. Host your own art show at home and invite friends or family to come view.

Outdoor Activities

Spring break is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors. Take a bike ride, go for a nature walk or hike, or set up an obstacle course or picnic in your backyard. Set up a tent and sleeping bags for a backyard camping adventure. Outdoor activities are a fun way for kids to burn off energy and enjoy the warm weather.

Sensory Play Ideas

Sensory play is a great way for younger kids to explore the world around them. Set up a sensory play area with materials like rice, beans, water beads or sand, and let your kids explore with their senses. Sensory play can help with cognitive development and problem-solving skills.

Card Games

Card games are a fun way to keep kids entertained and teach them important skills like math and strategy. You can play classic card games like Go Fish or introduce your children to new games like Uno or Exploding Kittens. Card games are also a good idea for older kids and teens who might not be interested in other activities. Our family recently got into Cover Your Assets and other Grandpa Beck’s games. It’s a ton of fun and improve’s kids math skills without them really knowing it.

Science or Baking Experiments

Science experiments are a great way to teach kids about the world around them and spark their curiosity. You can find fun and easy science experiments online or in science kits. Set up a science center in your home and let your kids experiment with materials like baking soda, vinegar, and food coloring. Or have fun trying a new baking recipe. We have a spring break tradition where we do a cake decorating contest equipped with brightly-colored frosting and all kinds of toppings. My kids look forward to it every year!

Local Attractions

Spring break is a great time to explore new places and nearby cities. You can take a day trip to a nearby museum or amusement park or visit a local attraction like a children’s museum or science center. Make a list of local attractions and let your kids pick where they want to go.

Spring Break Camps

Spring break camps are a good idea for parents who have to work during the kids’ schedule. Many community centers and schools offer spring break programs that include fun activities like art projects, science experiments, and outdoor spring break activities. Check with your local community center or school to see if they offer any spring break camps.

Family Game Night

Family game night is a great way to spend quality time with the family and have a lot of fun. You can play board games, card games or even video games together. Family game night is also a great opportunity for older children and teens to spend time with their younger siblings and family members.

Local Library

The local library is a great resource for parents looking for fun and educational activities during spring break. Many libraries offer storytimes, craft activities, and other programs for young children. Older kids and teens can find books to read or even participate in writing workshops. I like to grab these cursive writing workbooks for my kids to practice with. 

Easter Eggs

Easter is often during spring break, which means there are plenty of fun Easter activities to do with your kids. You can dye eggs, have an Easter egg hunt, or even make your own Easter decorations. These activities are a great way to celebrate the holiday and spend quality time with your family.

Walking Trails

Walking trails are a great way to get some exercise and explore nature with your family. You can find walking trails in local parks, nature preserves, or even in your own neighborhood. Walking trails are a good idea for families with young children or those who want a more relaxed outdoor activity.

Monthly Boxes

Monthly subscription boxes are a fun way to keep kids entertained and educated during spring break. We love KiwiCo crates that offer science experiments, art projects, and even fun recipes. These boxes can be a great way to introduce your kids to new activities and ideas.

Don’t be afraid of spring break at home–it can be the perfect time for the whole family to spend quality time together and make great memories. There are many fun activities and ideas that can keep your kids busy and entertained, from scavenger hunts and board games to outdoor activities and science experiments. Think outside the box and devote some time to those things you just don’t seem to get around doing on a everyday week.