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If you are like me, you may be Googling new DIY activities for your child to do every few weeks. I like to have new and different activities for my son prepped and in my back pocket for the days I have lots of meetings, need to focus intently, or just days my son needs extra attention. Generally, these activities keep him playing independently for a long time. I like to rotate through them so they don’t become one of his “normal” toys. I want to keep these activities exciting so that they will have the desired effect I’m looking for. 

The best thing about these activities is they require no prep and can be used with items at home. I do not take credit for all of these activities. I have gotten these ideas from various blogs, Pinterest, people’s recommendations, etc.

Tissue Boxes and Diaper Wipes

As simple as it sounds. One day my son got a hold of the tissue box that we keep in the family room and he started pulling tissues out and putting them back in the box. When I first saw him do this, I wanted to stop him so he didn’t waste any more tissues. However, I am glad I didn’t. He spent a good 45 minutes pulling tissues out and putting them back in. It was brilliant. He has also used diaper wipes for the same game. It’s not that expensive of an activity and for some reason, is so entertaining.

Muffin Tin and Cups

My son loves this activity. He plays with it a few times a week because it is so effective and fun. Plus, you can do some variation with it. I had a silicone muffin tin and some silicone muffin liners lying around that I used, but you could do the same thing with a metal one and paper cups. The goal of the activity is to put the cups in the muffin tin. You can do this upside-down as well. Or even add Cheerios to the mix. 

Obstacle Course / Fort / Cushions on the Ground

This is another easy and entertaining game with variations. I have tried making an obstacle course with furniture cushions and pillows, but my son isn’t interested. I’ve seen videos of other children having fun though so it’s worth a shot. However, when my son was first learning to climb up on furniture (but was still too short to reach), I would take the cushions off the chairs and put them in front so that he could climb onto the chairs by himself. He loves being able to climb into a chair all by himself and likes to bring all of his toys with him. Another thing he likes is when I make a fort. He likes to hide all of his toys under it. The stashing toy activity keeps him playing happily and independently for 20-30 minutes.

Tape on any Surface

I have some colored masking tape but you could use whatever tape you have. Depending on your child’s age, you can put tape strips on their high chair tray and show them how to peel it off. I like to do it on my fridge or dishwasher since my son wants to be mobile and not stuck in a chair. Pro tip: masking tape is a super fun game on airplanes. Just tape the tray/seat in front of you or the window, and they will play for a long time. I plan on writing other blog posts with other travel tips so keep an eye out for those.

Anything from the Kitchen or Around the House

I swear my son’s favorite toys are the ones that aren’t toys. Anything from old diaper boxes, old macaroni boxes, laundry baskets, Tupperware, strainers, you name it. So just try handing your little one something random and see if they like it.

Dog Puzzler Feeder

Okay, hear me out. My son found my dog’s puzzle feeder I bought from the dollar store years ago, and he wanted to play with it. Before you judge me too harshly, I washed it in the dishwasher before letting him play with it. But just as it entertains my dog, it also entertains my son. I put Cheerios in it for him. You may or may not have one, but if you do, try it!

If I find any other no-prep DIY activities, I will add them to the list. Let me know in the comments if you have any other DIY activities that have worked for you! I would love to try them!

**Also, check out my other DIY activities posts: DIY Activities – Prep Work Required (1-2 year old), Minimal-Prep DIY Activities