12 Ideas for Keeping Kids Entertained During Quarantine

School’s out for… spring? The coronavirus pandemic has moved the classroom—and the office—online for the foreseeable future, meaning that there are a lot more hours in the day to fill when it comes to entertaining your kids. Keeping kids entertained during quarantine is a tall order, but unlimited screen time is no way to spend this time at home (though if your kids are getting more screen time than normal they’re going to be just fine, so long as you strike a healthy balance).

With many playgrounds, stores, and community spaces closed across the country, plus a hiatus on playdates, it’s definitely a tough time to be a parent. Fortunately, there are lots of creative things you can do when it comes to keeping kids entertained during quarantine that don’t require leaving your home. Check out 12 of our favorite ideas below, and think outside of the box when it comes to keeping your little ones (and yourself) occupied until physical distancing requirements are lifted.

DIY Board Games

Family Book Club

Plant a Garden

Mystery Movie Nights

Cardboard City Planning

Host a Snack Competition

Show and Tell

Go Camping in the Backyard

Play “Eye Spy” on a Walk

Take a Virtual Tour

Write to Pen Pals

Make an Obstacle Course

TV and iPads are great, but when it comes to keeping kids entertained during quarantine, thinking outside of the box is one of the best ways to ensure everyone is having fun and staying active. Try out the ideas above, making tweaks where needed to accommodate kids of certain ages or with unique interests. Use this time to bond as a family and learn some new things, and who knows, your kids might ask to keep the fun going even after quarantine has been lifted!