Beat the Boredom: 10 Screen-Free Summer Activities for Toddlers & Preschoolers

Summer with little ones is a wild mix of sunshine, snack requests, and “what can we do now?” moments. And while screens can be a temporary lifesaver, most of us want to find ways to keep our kids entertained without the tablet being the main event.

Whether you're home for the day, looking for after-care ideas, or just trying to survive the weekend, here are 10 screen-free summer activities that are toddler-tested and parent-approved.

1. Make a Backyard Obstacle Course

No fancy equipment needed. Grab a pool noodle, a bucket, a towel, and whatever else you have lying around. Let your child crawl under, jump over, and race around like a mini ninja. Add a timer if they're feeling competitive.

2. Ice Cube Rescue Mission

Freeze tiny toys inside an ice cube tray and let them “rescue” them using salt, droppers, or even toy hammers. It’s sensory, it’s cool (literally), and it buys you a solid 20 minutes of peace.

3. Paint with Water

Yes, just water. Give them a bucket and a paintbrush and let them “paint” the sidewalk, fence, or porch. They’ll be amazed by the disappearing art, and you don’t have to worry about cleanup.

4. Host a Teddy Bear Picnic

Pack up a lunch or snack, grab a blanket, and bring the stuffed animals outside. Add music and call it an event. Bonus points for little sandwiches or fruit on toothpicks. They love anything mini.

5. Build a Fort Outside

Use patio furniture, towels, and clothespins to build a shaded “clubhouse” in the yard. Toddlers love the novelty, and it’s a great spot to read books, play pretend, or just chill.

6. Nature Scavenger Hunt

Walk around your neighborhood or local park and look for things like “a yellow flower,” “a bug,” or “a stick shaped like a letter.” It gets them moving and noticing what’s around them.

7. Bubble Bath for Toys

Fill a tub or bin with soapy water and toss in plastic animals, cars, or even blocks. Add a sponge and let your little one play “car wash” or “pet spa.” They’ll have a blast, and the toys get clean.

8. Sidewalk Chalk Games

Think beyond drawing:  try hopscotch, obstacle paths, or shape-matching games. Or draw big letters and let them “squirt the letter A” with a spray bottle.

9. DIY Popsicle Making

Let your child help pour juice, yogurt, or blended fruit into molds (or paper cups with sticks). Then make a big deal out of the grand tasting later. It’s a sweet reward for a little patience.

10. Dance Party with Props

Crank up some kid-friendly tunes and bring out scarves, instruments, or ribbons. Even 10 minutes of dancing burns off a ton of energy, and gets those wiggles out before nap time.

You Don’t Need to Be a Pinterest Parent

The best summer days usually come from simple things: a bucket of water, a few giggles, and a little creativity. No need to plan every minute. Just pick one of these, roll with it, and let your toddler take the lead.

And remember, if you're ever feeling tapped out, we totally get it. That’s why we keep our days at Murtis Taylor Child Enrichment Centers packed with hands-on, screen-free activities like these. Childhood should be loud, messy, and full of movement… especially in the summer.

Looking for child care that provides engaging, fun, and educational activities all throughout the year for your young one? Contact us to learn more about child care for kids 18 months -12 years of age.