Fun & Free Kids Activities for School Holidays

School holidays are here…

And if you’re anything like me, there’s that moment where you think – how am I going to fill all these days?

If you’re looking for easy kids activities to get through the holidays, you’re definitely not alone. But the good news is, it doesn’t have to be complicated (or expensive).

Some of the best kids activities are the simple ones – the ones that don’t require much planning, don’t cost a cent, and actually work in real life.

1. Get Out of the House (Free Kids Activities)

You don’t need to plan anything big – even simple activities outside can make a huge difference.

• A walk around the block
• Visiting a local playground
• Beach, river or park trips
• Exploring somewhere new nearby

For younger kids, bring snacks or a scooter.
For older kids, let them choose where to go – it makes it feel more exciting. (And if your kids are like mine, also bring snacks!)

2. Rainy Day Kids Activities (That Still Burn Energy)

Rainy days can feel long… especially during the holidays.

But staying inside all day isn’t your only option. Some of the best activities happen outside – even in the rain.

• Jumping in puddles
• Playing in the mud
• Nature scavenger hunts
• Collecting sticks, leaves or rocks

Having the right gear makes this so much easier – keeping kids dry underneath and saving you from a full outfit change (and extra washing) later. Check out our NZ-made Coveralls and Overpants.

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3. Simple Creative Play

You don’t need anything fancy here.

• Drawing, colouring, cutting
• Playdough
• Cardboard box creations
• Reusing packaging for crafts

Younger kids: keep it simple and hands-on
Older kids: let them create something “bigger” (a project, game, or setup)

4. Make Something Ordinary Feel Special

It’s not always about what you do – it’s how you do it.

A small twist can turn everyday activities into something they remember.

• Movie night with popcorn and blankets
• Picnic on the lounge floor
• Backyard camping
• Crazy hair or dress-up day

These take very little effort but feel like something different.

One of the easiest ways to take the pressure off?

Let them decide.

• Pick the meals
• Choose the activity
• Plan the day

It doesn’t have to be big – but kids love having a say in what they’re doing.

6. Rotate Your Kids Toys (Without Buying Anything)

If everything feels a bit repetitive, try this:

• Put some toys away
• Bring others back out
• Rearrange how things are set up

It’s one of the easiest ways to make toys feel new again – without spending money.

Keep It Simple

School holidays don’t have to be perfect, and they don’t have to be packed with activities.

Not every day needs to be filled – some of the best days are the slower ones, staying home, doing a few simple activities, and just being together.

Sometimes the simple ideas – the messy ones, the outside ones, the ones where nothing really goes to plan – are the ones they remember most.

You don’t need to spend money.
You don’t need to plan everything.

You just need a few moments that feel good.

Looking for More Kids Activities?

If you need more ideas, you can find plenty of simple kids activities on the blog – from messy play to easy crafts you can set up at home.

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