School is canceled and social distancing is the new normal, and at this point we’re all getting a little bit stir-crazy, especially the kiddos! We’ve compiled a list of fun activities to do – because we all need a little bit of help from each other during these unique times!

Crafts

Time to pull out the construction paper, paint, and glitter! Crafts are not only super fun, but also allow everyone to let out their creative side, and (BONUS!) this is an opportunity to put the “reuse” back in “reduce, reuse, and recycle”.

• Make a birdhouse out of a used milk or juice carton. Instructions can be found here. 
• Old egg cartons? Not garbage anymore! - 25 crafts to reuse old egg cartons
• Don't know what to do with an old pair of rain boots? We have just the thing - turn them into planters! 
• Good, old fashioned painting! Put down a cover for the table and get out the canvases, cardboard, or even paper grocery bags! They can paint their favorite pet, plant, person, or perhaps they’re the next Picasso and prefer a more abstract approach 😊

Cartoons

Round up the family and put on some classic cartoons. Bond with your kids by showing them what you used to watch every Saturday morning. How about some Looney Toons, Tom and Jerry, or Scooby Doo? Oldies but goodies! Or how about some (slightly) modern classics like Duck Tales, The Powerpuff Girls, or SpongeBob SquarePants?

Get outside

Just because you have to stay at home doesn’t mean you have to stay inside!

• Take a family walk around the neighborhood
• Have a picnic in your yard or porch
• Do a nature scavenger hunt around your yard or neighborhood
• Chalk paintings on the pavement
• Ride bikes
• Start a garden in your yard, or just some potted plants if you don’t have a yard
• Blow bubbles
• Jump up and down in muddy puddles - but don't forget to wear your boots!
• Toss around a frisbee
• If weather permits, have a camp out in your yard

Baking

Put on your apron! It's time to dust off that mixer and get to baking. If you've already worked through your classic "tried and true" recipes, maybe try something healthier like granola bars, breakfast “cookies”, or banana muffins. Or get creative! Frosting, sprinkles and edible pearls are a great way to turn a plain ol' cupcake into a masterpiece. Bonus tip: snap a picture or take a video of the process and post on your social media! 

Board games, puzzles, and more

• When was the last time you had a family game night? Exactly, because between school, soccer practice, eating, and sleep - who has time for that anymore? There are classic games for kids of all ages – from Candyland to Uno to Monopoly. Get some snacks together and let the competition begin!
• Puzzles aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, however, they are awesome to do as a family. They are great to get everyone working together and to get conversation flowing.
• Do a video call with a family member or friend. It's always nice to see a friendly face.
• If the kiddos need some more activities to do – check out our Fritz and Friends page for printable fun and games!