10 Screen-Free Ways to Entertain Toddlers Indoors (Tried and Tested!)

10 Screen-Free Ways to Entertain Toddlers Indoors (Tried and Tested!)

When the weather turns grey (again!) and you're out of ideas, it’s easy to fall back on screens for a bit of peace. But we know the magic that happens when play takes over, curiosity blooms, confidence builds, and connection deepens. Here are 10 genuinely fun, screen-free activities to keep your toddler entertained indoors, packed with toys, crafts, books, and gentle parenting goodness we swear by.

1. Rotation Station: Refresh the Toy Shelf

Toddlers thrive on novelty, but that doesn’t mean buying new toys every week. Try rotating toys fortnightly. Set up just 3–4 items at a time, like a chunky wooden puzzle, a musical instrument, or a stacking toy. This creates instant interest without overwhelm.

💡 Shop idea: Our bestselling Plus Plus sets are perfect for mini hands and big imaginations. https://acornandpip.com/collections/plus-plus

2. Build a ‘Yes Space’

Designate a safe indoor area where your toddler can explore freely. Soft mats, open-ended toys, and baskets of sensory items (scarves, wooden spoons, silicone cups) invite curiosity and confidence.

🌿 Parenting tip: A “yes space” gives them independence and you a moment to drink your tea while it’s hot.

3. Storytime Safari

Books are one of the most powerful tools for indoor connection. Set up a cosy reading nook with cushions and soft lighting. Let your child pick 3 books—and see where the stories take you.

📚 Favourite picks: Try our book selection 

4. Sensory Play Magic

A tray of dry pasta, a spoon, and a few scoops = 30 minutes of bliss. Add nature treasures (pine cones, pebbles), water beads, or a simple homemade playdough recipe for variety.

🖐 Bonus: Sensory play helps regulate emotions and builds fine motor skills.

5. Make a Mini Artist Studio

Toddlers love to create, on everything. Offer safe spaces for messy art: think dot markers, sticker books, and easy crafts. Use a tablecloth or large sheet of paper to protect surfaces and let them go wild.

🎨 Top product: Our Toddler Craft Kit includes everything you need for rainy-day masterpieces.

6. Turn the Couch into a Jungle Gym

No fancy equipment needed. Pull out the cushions, create tunnels, or roll around together. Physical play indoors can be just as exciting—and it burns off energy fast.

👟 Pro tip: Add a toddler-friendly yoga session or calming movement game to reset the vibe after.

7. Music and Dance Party

Pop on your favourite tunes and get silly. Shakers, tambourines, and scarves add to the fun. Bonus points for freeze dance or musical statues!

🎶 Try this: Our Mini Music Set is the ideal indoor energy outlet.

8. Set Up Small World Play

A tray with animals, cars, or peg dolls and a scarf for a river = hours of immersive storytelling. You don’t need a lot, just a little imagination.

9. Bake Together (Sort of)

Let your toddler help make simple snacks, banana muffins, smoothies, or toast faces. Mixing, pouring, and “helping” builds skills and connection.

🥣 Gentle parenting idea: It’s about the experience, not the mess. Toddlers thrive when trusted with real jobs.

10. Bring Back the Classics

Don’t forget the old favourites: hide and seek, Simon says, or building a den with blankets. Toddlers love predictability, and these low-prep games always win.

🛏 Final thought: A duvet den + a torch = toddler heaven.

Need a hand with indoor play?

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