"The crown jewel of childhood is playtime. Kids can authentically express themselves and those colorful ideas theyâre constantly dreaming up through play. Talk to most people, and theyâll fondly remember what they played as a kid. For some, it was imagining worlds with Barbies, My Little Pony, or Power Rangers (any nostalgic â90s kids out there?). For others, it was having a blast making cookie dough, playing video games, or riding bikes around the neighborhood. Playdates with friends are certainly core to many of those childhood memories.
The benefit of playdates
Indeed, when your child is ready for their first playdate, suddenly a whole new world of possibilities opens up for themâand you. Playdates nurture their social skills, grow their friendships to the next level, and do things that are more fun when thereâs someone else to do them with. Meanwhile, you get to potentially bond with another parent, reconnect with your own inner child, or carve out some precious alone time while the kids are off playing.
The nice part about playdates is that organizing them can be as elaborate or simple as you want it to be. Some parents channel a lot of enthusiasm into coming up with the perfect playdate, others keep it easy breezy and set their kids up with some toys or games and let them have at it. And sure, maybe our kids wonât remember all (or most!) of the playdates we arrange for them. However, I do believe that somewhere inside of us, the memories of our enjoyable momentsâplaydates includedâexist.
From play cafes to themed museums, playdate inspiration is flowing, giving children unique outlets to express their creativity and expand their imagination. Remember, you certainly donât have to have the most perfectly choreographed playdate for your toddler or kid to feel theyâve had a stellar time. However, if youâre looking for some idea starters or easy ways to make having a playdate with a friend feel a bit more special, weâre here to help. Here are 40 fun and engaging playdate ideas for toddlers and little kids during their next friendly get-together.
While weâve categorized them by age group, you know your childâs interests bestâfeel free to do any of them accordingly. Happy playing!
Playdate ideas for toddlers
Playdates for toddlers are all about helping them imagine new things and engage all their senses. Their curiosity seems truly endless. Whatever you decide to do with them, expect to be refreshed by their readiness to embrace it.
1. Set up a scavenger or treasure hunt
The beauty of this one is that it can be as simple or elaborate as you make it, indoors and/or outdoors. You can opt to hide a bunch of objects that little ones will have to track down, come up with specific sights they have to locate, or some combination of the two. To get them extra amped about doing it, you can share what the grand finale will be if they successfully complete the entire hunt. There are also lovely printables that can get you started as well.
2. Fingerpaint
Since toddlers canât get their hands on enough sensory play, theyâll likely have a ball if you set up a mega fingerpainting session for them. Itâs not always the easiest to clean up⊠but often, the messy factor is precisely whatâs positively correlated to a good time. You can get creative with surfaces by trying larger canvases from your local craft store or go eco by using leftover cardboard pieces or old T-shirts
3. Go on a picnic in the park
During warmer weather, it can be so pleasant to pack up some toddler-approved snacks and set up a big picnic blanket at a nearby park. You can bring along some outdoor toys or games, but odds are good the kiddosâ imaginations will make for plenty of outdoor amusement.
4. Have storytime
Many a toddler cherishes an animating story, so yours might love having a playdate devoted to reading a couple of stories together. They might even be ready to tell you exactly what they want to hear. If not, we also have everything from kidsâ books about emotions to fairytale remakes to books about the Earth to STEM learning books and beyond to inspire them.
5. Go camping in the backyard or inside
If youâve got a camping or beach tent on hand, then setting it up in honor of a playdate is instant entertainment. Otherwise, create a makeshift tent using sheets or blankets and whatever furniture will work as supports. Then, you can sing songs, make microwave or toaster oven sâmores, read stories, play games, appreciate nature, or do whatever your toddlers think you do when you camp!
6. Do a car wash
If the weather is nicer, all the suds and splashing of this activity is great for littles who adore water. It also happens to save you from your next car cleaning outing. Since sometimes car wash soaps can be a bit harsh on skin, it might be best to find a gentle option if you can. Otherwise, a super mild and nonabrasive dish soap should be fine.
7. Visit a play cafe or indoor playground
Does anybody else remember the days of McDonaldâs play places? Though theyâve mostly vanished, the brilliant concept has not. Many cities and towns have created dedicated spaces for kids to play while adults can take a breather nearby. Just search for âplay cafeâ or âindoor playgroundâ in your area and see if something fits the bill.
8. Do some gardening
There is an abundance of gardening activities for toddlers to get their little hands invested in the magic of Mother Earth. Planting new seeds, pulling weeds, investigating whatâs already growing, and watering plants are all fulfilling ways to explore gardening outdoors. If youâre limited to indoor gardening, you can still plant seeds in small cups or eggshell cartons, grow seedlings in damp paper towels, create terrariums, or make plant/floral arrangements.
9. Build forts
You canât go wrong with this classic toddler activity. All you probably have to do is say, âLetâs build a fort!â and theyâll be off to the races. That being said, you can always get cardboard boxes, pillows, cushions, blankets, sheets, string lights, and anything else with fort potential ready for the building extravaganza. If anything, toddlers will thank you for having snacks and an activity for them to do in their fort once itâs built.
10. Play with a water table or other outdoor water activities
Toddlers usually light up when they get to play with a water table or other water-based hands-on activity. Thereâs no shortage of entertaining outdoor water tables and toys to present them with. Sprinklers and splash pads can do the job, too. If the weather isnât ideal for outdoor water play, you can try setting up a water table on a big tarp inside to mitigate any splashes.
11. Play dress up
The skyâs the limit when you give toddlers the space to pretend play to their heartâs content. Old Halloween costumes, thrift store finds, less used clothing or accessories you or your partner have on hand, or festive items you can find for a low cost at Target, Walmart, Five Below, etc.
12. Have a dance party
YouTube and Spotify are brimming with playlists specifically geared toward little ones, making it easy to get groovy together for a dance party. Theyâll be able to put their boundless energy to good use while getting in some solid exercise time. You can also build your own playlist for your toddlerâs next dance party once you see which songs really get them excited.
13. Create a toy heaven
Chances are you have some of the best toys for kids right at homeâand your childâs playdate partner will be thrilled to explore new toys. Now, sometimes an overload of toys at once can be overwhelming and your little one might have a hard time sharing some of their favorites. If thatâs the case, check in with them ahead of time to see what they want to play with their friendâand model taking turns if it becomes an issue at the playdate.
14. Host a tea party
A timeless playdate idea, tea parties are a cute opportunity for littles to dress up in some fancy clothes and bond together. Weather permitting, you can make it a garden tea party, otherwise, you can set up a special space to host it inside. You can sweeten a colorful fruit tea, serve them their favorite juice, or offer a little menu where they can place their âteaâ orders.
15. Go to a childrenâs museum
Since these museums are especially customized for children, there are attention-grabbing exhibits and interactive activities for children of all ages. With playspaces, sensory experiences, entertaining shows, and new knowledge to impress kids, heading to one will not only enrich their minds but their sense of fun.
Playdate ideas for little and big kids
The nice thing about playdates for little and big kids is you can be somewhat more hands-off if youâd like (or because theyâd like). There are a lot of outings and attractions that can appeal to their big energy, adventurous spirits, and impressive creativity.
16. Visit a science museum
Show kids that a science museum is anything but reserved for an educational field trip. When they have the chance to visit one out of school hours with their friends, itâs a whole different excursion. They can call the shots of what exhibits they want to check out, making it more organic and down-to-earth. Most science museums tailor the bulk of their exhibits to be kid-friendly, so theyâll be able to easily find ones up their alley.
17. Paint ceramics
For the artistic kids, head to a paint-your-own pottery or ceramics studio that offers pre-made pieces kids can glaze. Typically, there is an assortment of appealing options for them to choose from, like animals, dishware, characters, flowers, cars, sports or music objects, and more. If you donât have a studio nearby, you can always take kids to a local craft store to pick out their own ceramic kits for painting at home.
18. Go bowling
Not necessarily your everyday sport, bowling can get kids engaged in playing something thatâs relatively novel. From a kidâs point of view, throwing balls and knocking down pins is a pretty big perk. Bowling alleys are often full of good cheer, making this an energizing and uplifting playdate all around.
19. Play sports
For the kiddos who will be totally happy playing their favorite sport(s) with their friends, this playdate is a no-brainer. Itâs super active, lets them discharge any built-up energy, and maintains a momentum that mitigates any âwhat now?â lulls. If playing outside isnât an option, hopefully, thereâs a nearby rec center with some open-play sports possibilities.
20. Visit an amusement or water park
Sure, an amusement park or water park is more of an investment, but it will rank high on the fun factor, especially for older kids. If youâre aiming for thrills and tons of stimulation, heading for some epic rides or water slides will be just the ticket.
21. Go on a hike or bike ride
Get into the great outdoors by setting foot on a doable hiking trail or wheeling around on pedestrian-friendly paths/roads in your area. With lots of fresh air and sights to see, kids will have a revitalizing time being trailblazers as hikers or bikers.
22. Play with Legos or other building blocks
Kids who can hold their attention on building projects will be psyched for a new Lego challenge. Set them up with a big bin of Lego blocks and task them with creating something ultra cool that nobodyâs ever seen before, or find a Lego set thatâs well-suited to their age. If itâs a longer playdate, you can pair it with a screening of The Lego Movie, too.
23. Host a lemonade stand
Give kids an opportunity to practice their entrepreneurial skills by planning, preparing, and hosting their own lemonade stand (or other snacks/beverages of choice). They can make inviting signs, come up with the best recipes, and decide what location will bring the most sales traffic. Alternatively, Iâve also seen stands where kids give out what theyâve made for free to brighten somebodyâs day. If youâd like them to focus less on the money aspect, this can be a nice way to frame it.
24. Do a yoga session
Show your kids the power of zen by leading them in a series of yoga poses and stretching exercises. Put on some yoga music to really set the scene. Yoga for kids YouTube videos or yoga activity cards can be helpful guides as well. Once they get the hang of it, they can take turns being the lead yogi for the group.
25. Volunteer somewhere
Get involved in a kid-friendly volunteer activity for the day and channel the power of acts of kindness. From animal shelters to park cleanups, there are a variety of ways they can feel what itâs like to make a difference and give back.
26. Visit a trampoline park or climbing gym
Lots of places have indoor recreational venues specifically devoted to trampoline jumping or rock climbing. If youâve got kids who like a good adrenaline rush, checking out one of these activities will definitely charge them up. Just remember most venues require a signed waiver from parents or caregivers to participate.
27. Film a movie or collection of short videos
Hereâs the chance to become overnight celebrities. Introduce the playdateâs group of kiddos to show business by encouraging them to create their very own movie. You can suggest they include scripts, costumes, and props, and assign specific roles (director, camera person, costume designer, etc.) so they take it more seriously. If theyâre more into the entertainment they see on social media, then they can create a set of videos for their own channel instead. For safety and privacy, you donât have to make the movie/channel public, of course, but perhaps it can be shared with family and friends.
28. Play laser tag
Bring the force to your kidsâ playdate with a couple of rounds of laser tag. If you grew up in the â90s, you might not be a stranger to this black light-playing extravaganza. Laser tag was popular for birthday parties or just a night out with friends. While itâs not quite the rage it was then, you can still find places that offer it. Playing at home is also an optionâthere are even laser tag sets you can buy online.
29. Head to an arcade
Another source of â90s kid joy? Going to an arcade to play games, joke with friends, win tokens, and select the best prizes. If you have an arcade in your area, you can count on your kids being happily occupied while you can (hopefully) catch some R&R time.
30. Have a spa day
Set up a round of pampering appointments, such as homemade face masks, manicures, pedicures, hair conditioning, etc. for a rejuvenating spa day. Since kids are wearing makeup and being exposed to impossible beauty standards at earlier and earlier ages, you can choose to celebrate whatever spa treatments make the most age-appropriate sense to you.
31. Go roller or ice skating
Heading to the rink is a perfect active playdate for little ones of all levels. Theyâll be able to learn as they goâjust make sure theyâre outfitted with any necessary safety gear. The experience is sure to spark a lot of laughs and memorable moments.
32. Attend a local sporting event or concert
If thereâs a sports team or music artist your child and their friends are obsessed with, this playdate will definitely be a winner. To get extra stoked beforehand, help them make signs or matching T-shirts for the event. You could also expose them to something/someone new. Perhaps it will inspire a new passion!
Playdate ideas for any age
These playdates are particularly easy to adapt across a broad range of ages. Whether youâre hoping for something more active, imaginative, or thoughtful, thereâs a little something to cover many childrenâs interests.
33. Visit the zoo or aquarium
Children of all ages can appreciate seeing exotic animals or aquatic life right before their very eyes. A trip to the zoo or aquarium is usually a safe bet for impressing kids with that genuine wow factor. Itâs also convenient that both places tend to offer special shows catered to kids. That way, they have a variety to their visit besides just walking around.
34. Head to the pool
For a water-inspired adventure, splash around at your neighborhood outdoor pool or head to a nearby rec centerâs indoor pool. Bring some floats, noodles, or beach balls to add to the fun. For safety, be sure you know each childâs swimming ability and be sure to keep watch at all times. If youâre going with toddlers, the kiddie area with the splash pad is perfect for them and (usually) easier to keep them corralled.
35. Go see a movie
For kids who are used to watching movies at home, heading to the theater can be a special treat. Set them up with some popcorn and candy (or some toddler snacks), and boom, youâre good to go!
36. Bake and/or decorate desserts
It wonât take toddlers or kids much convincing to partake in a playdate that appeals to their sweet tooth. Baking also happens to be a useful way to teach them about proportions and measurements. You can see if thereâs anything particular theyâre in the mood to bake or decide in advance. If youâre not feeling up to managing the baking part with kids around, theyâll still enjoy decorating pre-baked brownies, cupcakes, cookies, etc. A whole table full of frostings, candy, and other sugary toppings to have their way withâwhatâs not to love?
37. Create arts and crafts
Kids who are drawn to art and making new things arenât going to say no to trying a new project. Tie-dying, jewelry-making, painting, creating collages, sculpting with clay or Play-Doh, weaving, soap or candle making, and decorating clothing or dĂšcor are some of the many directions they can go. Weâve created lists of ideas for just about every season and occasion. Fall, winter, spring, and summer arts and crafts, fashion projects, eco-friendly art and nature projects, DIY affirmation card decks, toilet paper roll crafts⊠you name it!
38. Host a pizza party
Grab an already-made pizza crust or two, some sauce, and a mix of toppings. Then lay out a MYOP creation station where the kids can build pizzas together. If they canât agree on toppings, you can portion off the crust individually and bake their pizza/slices separately. Pair the culinary festivities with some games for kids and/or an animated movie, and the partyâs on!
39. Do science experiments
Have kids conduct some rocket science in their own at-home âlaboratory.â A quick online search will turn up experiments designed with kids in mind. For example, with toddlers, you can make homemade bubbles, hatch frozen dinosaur eggs, create sensory bins, or play with DIY foam. Meanwhile, for little and big kids, they can erupt volcanoes, grow crystals, power light bulbs with fruit, or create candy chemistry.
40. Have a game day
Round up a collection of toddlersâ or kidsâ preferred games and get everyone ready for some friendly competition and prizes. If itâs a group of kids who are more into video games, you can deck out their video game play area with drinks and snacks. Basically, if youâre up to it, add touches here and there so that the playdate feels like more than just another everyday gaming session.
