Fun things to do with your child that don’t cost a penny

There’s lots of news about increases in the cost of living at the moment, but fun activities with your little one needn’t cost you a thing. 

From woodland walks to scavenger hunts, we are going to have a look at some of our favourite things to do outdoors for free. 

Get outside! 

There is so much fun and adventure on our doorsteps that we can access easily. You can pull on a pair of wellies and go on a squelchy, muddy walk, go puddle-jumping or walk to a local park to see how high your child can zoom on a rocket (swing!) to space. Your baby may enjoy watching the leaves sway in the breeze, or the touch of grass on their fingers or under their feet. 

Nature trail 

For your toddler or pre-schooler, why not turn a walk around your local area into a nature trail? You could make a list (using pictures instead of words, so they can identify them) of things to look out for on your walk. Could you spot two green leaves, maybe a snail, or a squirrel? You could take a little bag to collect any leaves, twigs or other natural objects that catch your eye, which could be repurposed at home later, and perhaps used in a picture, to create some ephemeral nature art, or to make a woodland scene for other toys to play in. For your baby, this could be a walk in the pram while you name what you can see. 

Feed the ducks 

If you have any spare oats at home, you could take these to a pond or wetland area to feed to the ducks. You could talk about the different kinds of wildlife you can see, and describe the colours of their feathers, beaks and feet. 

Garden adventures 

If you have a garden or outdoor space, you could place some of your child’s favourite toys in unusual places for them to discover; perhaps the dinosaurs and fairies have found a home under a bush, or the teddy bear has decided to have a picnic under the tree. These simple ideas can set off a world of imaginative play for your little one. 

On warm days, a simple cup of water and a paintbrush can create a world of fun as your child ‘paints’ the garden. They can make marks on bricks, paving, and even ‘paint’ the plants. At the end, they can use any remaining water to water the garden. 

For your younger baby, you could bring a mat outside for them to practise some tummy time looking at the plants or grass, or to simply allow them to look at the clouds drifting by. You might like to share a story together outside. 

We hope we have helped you find some new ways to have fun outdoors together!