When the winter school holidays roll around, many parents start wondering how to keep the kids entertained without resorting to screens or spending a small fortune. The good news? Fun doesn’t have to cost much – in fact, some of the most memorable moments are made with little more than time, imagination, and a warm cuppa nearby.
Whether you’re juggling work-from-home days or simply trying to survive the “I’m bored” chorus, these budget-friendly (or totally free!) ideas are perfect for keeping children engaged, active and connected – right in your own home.
1. Indoor Camping Adventure
Bring the outdoors in! Use blankets, chairs, and cushions to build a “tent” or fort in the lounge room. Add sleeping bags, snacks, and torches to make it a real camping experience. Kids love the novelty, and it’s a great way to slow down and spend quality time together.
👉 Parent tip: No special equipment needed – let your child’s creativity lead the way.
2. DIY Obstacle Course
Transform your hallway or lounge into a movement maze using everyday household items. Think jumping over cushions, crawling under tables, or zig-zagging around shoes. It’s a great way to burn energy on cold or rainy days.
👉 Parent bonus: Encourages gross motor skills, balance, and teamwork – all for free.
3. Themed Movie Days at Home
Choose a theme like “Under the Sea” or “Superheroes,” let the kids dress up, and screen movies to match. Set up a “cinema” space with ticket stubs, a homemade snack bar, and comfy pillows.
👉 Low-cost option: Borrow DVDs from your local library or stream from a subscription you already use.
4. Bake Together Using Pantry Staples
No need for fancy ingredients — pikelets, banana muffins, or simple biscuits are fun to make and even better to eat. Let kids stir, pour, and decorate.
👉 Life skill bonus: Involves maths, fine motor skills, and responsibility – all in a fun (and tasty) format.
5. Indoor or Backyard Treasure Hunt
Hide a few small items around the house or yard and create a map or clues to find them. You can use toys, handwritten notes, or even pieces of fruit!
👉 Customise it: Tailor to your child’s age or interests – from pirates to princesses to superheroes.
6. Creative Craft with Recyclables
Gather toilet rolls, cereal boxes, paper scraps and let your child create a robot, rocket, or cardboard town. No craft kit required.
👉 Parent win: Teaches sustainability, patience and creative problem-solving.
7. Nature Walk & Collection
A simple walk becomes an adventure when kids are encouraged to collect leaves, sticks, or rocks. Once home, turn the finds into collages, press flowers, or use them for painting.
👉 Cost? Zero. Benefits? Fresh air, exercise and curiosity sparked.
8. Puzzle or Game Day
Dust off those old board games or puzzles – or better yet, make your own. Use coins or tokens and draw up a game board on paper. Kids can invent rules and name their creation.
👉 Team-building tool: Builds communication, patience, and turn-taking skills.
👉 Make a day of it and pop down to our Somewhere Nice Op Shop & Cafe to grab a bargain from our toys and games section… some of which start at just $1! Located at 36 Railway Street Liverpool there is usually plenty of street parking during the School Holidays!
9. Living Room Disco
Put on your favourite playlist and let everyone dance like nobody’s watching. Add in freeze dance, musical statues, or even a family dance-off.
👉 Parent bonus: Great for bonding, movement, and laughter – all without stepping outside.
10. Sock Puppet Show & Storytime
Use old socks and buttons to make puppets and put on a play. Or, let the kids create their own story to act out using toys and props from around the house.
👉 Language skills: Encourages storytelling, vocabulary and imagination.
Remember
You don’t need to spend money to make the holidays meaningful. In fact, some of the most valuable time we can give our children is simply being present. These simple, low-cost activities are not only engaging – they’re a great way to connect, laugh, and enjoy the school holidays together.
