At‑home fun for kids: Easy ways to connect and play inside
When floods, fires or other disruptions leave the ground soggy, buggy or unsafe, families often find themselves spending more time indoors.
Even if you can’t head outside, connection and play don’t have to stop. In fact, these moments can be perfect for slowing down and enjoying simple inside play for kids that boosts creativity and connection.
We asked our Outback Futures Parent Peers for their favourite at‑home ideas.
Here are three simple, low‑cost ways to have fun with your little people indoors.
1. DIY Play: Create an Invention Box
An Invention Box is a great way to spark creativity and hands‑on exploration. By using recycled materials from around the house, kids can invent, build and problem‑solve, which makes it perfect inside play for kids of all ages.
Gather items from your recycling pile, craft drawer or outside and invite your children to tinker, test and create. You may need to jump in with a helping hand or simply celebrate their ideas and effort. You might include:
- Cardboard
- Bubble wrap
- Bottle lids
- String or wool
- Coloured paper
- Tape or glue
- Textas or pencils
- Rocks and sticks
- Flowers and leaves
Top tip from Tegan, our Parent Peer in Winton:
Keep a box of recycled materials ready to go so kids can invent anytime inspiration strikes.
More DIY inside play ideas:
- Make a music shaker using dry rice and an empty bottle
- Create paper‑bag feelings puppets to explore emotions and storytelling
2. Creative Play: Build a Cubbyhouse
Another great idea! Nothing says inside play for kids like building a cubbyhouse. Use pillows, sheets, chairs or cardboard to create a cosy hideaway for imaginative fun.
Once it’s built, the cubby can become anything! A shop, fort, office or school. It’s also a lovely spot for a teddy bear picnic, shared book, or quiet play.
Top tip from Ayla, our Parent Peer in Longreach:
Use a torch inside the cubbyhouse to add a magical twist.
More creative indoor ideas:
- Rainbow spaghetti (add food colouring to cooked spaghetti for sensory fun)
- Ribbon‑wand dance party (attach ribbon to a chopstick or dowel and turn on the music)
3. Everyday Play: Cooking Together
Another idea is cooking, which is practical, playful and great for connection. It helps kids develop independence and decision‑making, plus it’s a delicious form of inside play for kids on a rainy day!
Depending on the recipe, you may need to guide your child or use child‑safe utensils.
From Elley, our Parent Peer in Blackall and Tambo:
My kids love making chocolate slice, quiche and cupcakes.
More everyday play ideas:
- Mealtime exploration: encourage kids to touch, smell and describe different food textures
- Routine race: turn getting dressed or bedtime into a slow or fast race
Need more ideas?
Explore our Play & Grow resource for more ways to connect and play indoors.
And if you’d like personalised support or encouragement, our Outback Futures Parent Peers are here to walk alongside you through the everyday journey of parenting.
