In a world surrounded by digital influence, the importance of hands-on learning cannot be overstated. From experimenting in science class to reenacting historical events, hands-on activities immerse students in a vibrant learning environment, allowing them to retain more information and apply their newly acquired skills.

While traditional classroom lectures have their place, studies have shown that kinesthetic learning, where students actively participate in physical activities related to the subject material, is the most successful way of learning. According to  a study from The Thinking Kid, “Kinesthetic learning is where a student carries out physical activities rather than listening to a lecture, helping them gain a superior understanding of the material.” This participatory form of education not only engages both the left and right sides of the brain but also fosters teamwork, critical thinking, and a genuine love for knowledge. 

With this in mind, we’ve curated a list of the best hands-on activities that promise not just fun but also a rich, educational experience for your kids. Dive in and discover the magic of hands-on learning!

20 Fun Activities to Get Kids Off Screens and Into Hands-On Fun!

Here are our top picks of hands-on activities for kids:

1. Playing Online Educational Games

Dealing with kids and too much screen time is a big worry for many parents. We all know that kids often spend hours staring at screens, and it’s hard to make sure this time is used well. That’s where online educational games can really help. They turn screen time into a chance for kids to learn and have fun at the same time, especially with subjects like math.

SplashLearn stands out as an excellent example of how online games can offer a hands-on learning experience. Here’s a closer look at how SplashLearn makes learning math hands-on, even in a digital format:

• Instead of just watching videos or playing regular games, SplashLearn lets kids play games where they learn math. It’s like hiding veggies in a tasty meal – kids enjoy the game but are also learning.
• Kids don’t just sit back and watch; they really get into what they’re doing. They have to think and make choices, like picking the right numbers or solving puzzles. This is a great way to learn!
• For parents worried about what their kids do online, SplashLearn is safe and educational. It’s a good way to use screen time, so you don’t have to feel bad about your kids being on their device.
• Every kid is different, and SplashLearn gets that. Kids can learn at their own speed, so they don’t feel rushed or bored.

2. Puzzle Race

Turn puzzle-solving into one of the competitive hands-on games. This activity not only enhances problem-solving skills but also adds an element of excitement.

Materials Needed:

• Two identical puzzles
• Timer

How to Do It:

• Divide participants into two teams.
• Start the timer and see which team completes their puzzle first.

Related Reading: Best Math Puzzles for Kids to Improve Cognitive Abilities

3. Nature Collage

Encourage children to connect with nature through these fun learning activities for kids. A nature collage allows kids to explore their surroundings and use their findings to create beautiful art.

Materials Needed:

• Cardboard or poster board
• Natural items (leaves, twigs, flowers, etc.)
• Glue

How to Do It:

• Go on a nature walk and collect various items.
• Arrange the collected items on the cardboard.
• Glue them in place to create a beautiful nature-inspired collage.

4. Fraction Pizza Party

Teach fractions in a delicious way by organizing a pizza party where kids can learn about halves, quarters, and eighths.

Materials Needed:

• Paper plates
• Colored paper or felt (red, yellow, brown) to represent different pizza toppings
• Scissors and glue

How to Do It:

• Cut the paper plates into halves, quarters, and eighths.
• Ask kids to decorate each ‘slice’ with paper toppings.
• Mix and match the slices to create whole pizzas, discussing the fraction each slice represents.

5. Magnetic Fishing Game

This activity offers a hands-on experience that combines craft with play. Kids can create fish and then “fish” for them using a magnetic fishing rod.

Materials Needed:

• Paper or cardboard
• Markers or crayons
• Paper clips
• String
• Stick or dowel
• Small magnet

How to Do It:

• Draw and cut out fish shapes from paper or cardboard.
• Attach a paper clip to each fish.
• Tie a string to the stick or dowel and attach the magnet to the other end.
• Scatter the fish on the floor and use the magnetic fishing rod to catch them!