The ‘I’m Bored’ Survival Guide: Treasure Hunts, Cooking Fun & More Screen-Free Summer Ideas

With summer holidays approaching, parents everywhere brace themselves for the inevitable chorus of “I’m bored!” While handing over a screen may seem like the easiest solution, why not turn this summer into a season of creativity, discovery, and hands-on fun?

We sat down with Lipika Sharma, an early childhood educator and mother of two, about exciting activities that not only keep children entertained but also encourage learning and bonding. Here’s what she suggests.

1. DIY science and nature lab

Activity: Turn your kitchen into a science lab with hands-on experiments. Try making a baking soda volcano, regrowing veggies from kitchen scraps, or setting up a simple sundial in the garden.

Creativity: Kids get to play scientist, mix ingredients, and observe real-world reactions — introducing scientific concepts through play.

Why it works: “It’s a great way to introduce concepts of cause and effect while having a blast,” says Lipika.

2. Treasure hunt with a twist

Activity: Set up a scavenger hunt at home or in a nearby park. Hide clues leading to a small ‘treasure’ — like a favourite treat, book, or handmade gift.

Creative twist: Older sublings can design hunts for younger ones, adding riddles, maps, or themed challenges.

Why it works: “It keeps kids moving, thinking, and working as a team. Plus, the thrill of discovery makes it extra exciting!” Lipika explains.

3. Cooking up memories

Activity: Turn meal prep into a fun family activity — get kids involved in making ice lollies, baking cookies, kneading pizza dough, or assembling colourful fruit skewers.

Creativity: Let kids mix, measure, and experiment with flavours. Add a storytelling element by pretending to run a family café!

Why it works: “Kids love being involved in the kitchen. Just be ready for a little mess,” Lipika laughs.

4. A day in a different era

Activity: Pick a theme like Victorian tea party, 80s retro, or life in an ancient village. Spend the day dressing up, eating themed food, and playing era-specific games.

Creativity: Make it a mini history lesson by exploring customs, traditions, and even old-school crafts.

Why it works: “It makes history come alive in a way that kids won’t forget,” Lipika shares.

5. Craft your own board game

Activity: Instead of buying a new game, create one! Use cardboard, markers, and dice to design a personalised board game based on your child’s interests.

Creativity: Add family-themed challenges, fun penalties, and rewards to make it engaging.

Why it works: “Designing the game is just as fun as playing it. Plus, it sparks problem-solving and creativity,” says Lipika.

6. Sleep under the stars (Even indoors!)

Activity: Set up a backyard camping night or make a pillow fort indoors with fairy lights and sleeping bags.

Creativity: Add stories, shadow puppets, or even a pretend campfire for the full experience.

Why it works: “Even if you stay indoors, it’s about the experience, not the location,” says Lipika. 

Summer doesn’t have to be a battle against boredom or excessive screen time. With a little creativity, every day can be an adventure. Which of these ideas will you try first?

Edited by Khushi Arora