Father’s Day Activities You Can Do With Toddlers (That Don’t Involve Screens)
Let’s be real—keeping toddlers entertained for more than seven minutes without a screen sometimes feels like an Olympic sport. Now throw in Father’s Day and the pressure to make it “special”? Yeah, no thank you. 😅
But don’t worry, I’ve got your back.
If you’re like me—juggling kids, a to-do list a mile long, and trying to plan something meaningful that doesn’t involve Cocomelon—this list is for you. These Father’s Day activities are toddler-approved, screen-free, and surprisingly easy to pull off (yes, even if your toddler is in one of those moods).
Let’s talk simple Father’s Day crafts for toddlers, backyard games, and some actually-unique ideas that go beyond the usual “draw Daddy a picture” suggestion.
🎨 Classic Father’s Day Crafts for Toddlers (with a Twist)
We’re starting with crafts because, let’s face it, toddlers love glue like dads love grilling. It’s messy, chaotic, and weirdly adorable.
1. Handprint Grill Master Art
Because nothing screams “Dad” like a grill. This one’s super cute and makes a great keepsake.
What You Need:
- Paper or canvas
- Washable paint (red, black, orange)
- Paintbrushes
- Marker
How To:
Paint your toddler’s hand black and press it onto the canvas—it becomes the grill! Add some red/orange “flames” with fingerprints or a brush. Use a marker to write “Dad, you’re the grill master of my heart!”
Cheesy? Yes. Cute? Also yes.
2. “Dad Rocks” Picture Frame
Okay, so this one might leave a little gravel in your carpet, but it’s worth it.
You’ll Need:
- A wooden or cardboard photo frame (Dollar Tree is your friend)
- Glue
- Small pebbles or decorative rocks
- A photo of Dad and the kids
How To:
Let your toddler go wild gluing the pebbles around the frame. Once it’s dry, pop in a photo and write “Dad Rocks!” on the bottom.
You could even gift it with his favorite snack for extra points.
3. Scribble Mug
Toddler scribbles = high art in our house. This one’s a total winner.
Materials:
- Plain white ceramic mug
- Oil-based Sharpies (or ceramic paint pens)
What You Do:
Let your toddler decorate the mug. Keep it abstract—no pressure for Picasso-level artwork. Once done, bake it at 350°F for 30 minutes (let it cool in the oven).
Pro tip: Write the date on the bottom. You’ll be glad you did.
🏃♂️ Backyard Games That’ll Make Dad Laugh (or Sweat)
Want to get everyone outside and burn off some toddler energy? These Father’s Day activities for kids work like a charm—and most don’t require a Target run.
4. “Daddy & Me” Obstacle Course
Think: mini American Ninja Warrior but with pool noodles and couch cushions.
What You Need:
- Hula hoops
- Pool noodles
- Plastic cones (or whatever you’ve got)
- Balloons
Set-Up:
Create a simple obstacle course with your supplies—tunnels to crawl through, stuff to jump over, and maybe even a balloon pop station. Then make Dad run it… with the toddler on his back 😅
Guaranteed laughs. And maybe a pulled muscle. Worth it.
5. Bubble Chase Challenge
This is exactly what it sounds like—but with a twist.
What You Need:
- Bubbles
- A timer
How To Play:
Set a timer and challenge Dad to pop as many bubbles as he can before time runs out… but only by doing silly moves (think hopping, crawling, or dancing). Bonus: let your toddler blow the bubbles (or at least try).
Spoiler alert: The toddler will probably just eat the wand.
6. Water Balloon Toss with a Toddler Spin
This one’s messy and fun—perfect for a warm day.
You’ll Need:
- Water balloons
- Buckets
The Game:
Dad and toddler stand a few feet apart. They toss the water balloon back and forth, taking a step back each time they catch it. The twist? The toddler holds the balloon like it’s a delicate baby chick. Hilarity will ensue.
Warning: This will escalate to an all-out water fight. Just embrace it. 😎
🧁 Tasty Father’s Day Treats You Can Make With a Toddler (Without Losing Your Mind)
If your toddler’s anything like mine, they love helping in the kitchen—as long as helping means licking batter off the spoon.
7. “You’re the Sweetest” Donut Decorating Station
You Need:
- Plain donuts
- Icing
- Sprinkles, crushed cookies, cereal
How To:
Set up a decorating station and let your toddler go wild. No rules, just chaos and sugar. Present the final masterpiece to Dad on a tray with a sticky note: “You’re the sweetest!”
Is it Pinterest-worthy? Probably not. Will it make him smile? 100%.
8. D-A-D Sandwiches
Cut sandwiches into letters to spell D-A-D. Use different fillings (PB&J, ham and cheese, Nutella if you’re feeling brave). Stack them up and serve with a side of “You’re the best, Dad!” cheerleading from your toddler.
It’s lunch and a love note all in one.
🧩 Unique Father’s Day Activities for Preschoolers and Toddlers
Let’s step off the Pinterest train for a sec. These ideas are a little different, a little weird, and a whole lot of fun.
9. DIY Storybook About Dad
What You Need:
- Stapled paper or a blank journal
- Crayons or markers
Ask your toddler questions like:
- What does Daddy do for work?
- What makes Daddy funny?
- What’s Daddy really good at?
Write down their answers (don’t correct them—just let it be hilarious) and let them illustrate it. You’ll both cry-laugh later reading it.
10. Daddy Spa Day
Yes, I said spa day. And yes, your toddler will LOVE it.
Set the Scene:
- Set out a towel, lotion, maybe even cucumber slices for Dad’s eyes.
- Give Dad a “foot massage” (a.k.a. poke his toes while giggling uncontrollably).
- Let your toddler “style” his hair.
It’s silly. It’s sweet. It’s very much payback for all those diaper blowouts he didn’t change.
11. Superhero Dad Dress-Up
Turn Dad into a superhero for the day—cape, mask, silly name and all. Let your toddler “design” the costume with construction paper and stickers.
Then, send him on “missions” like:
- Save the stuffed animal!
- Catch the runaway ball!
- Tickle attack incoming!
It’s make-believe fun that gives you a minute to sit down. You’re welcome.
💡 Pro Tips to Make These Father’s Day Activities Actually Happen
Let’s be honest—toddlers can be… unpredictable. Here’s how I manage to pull these things off without losing it halfway through:
Keep It Short
Plan activities that take 10–15 minutes max. Toddlers aren’t known for their attention span. If they’re done, they’re DONE.
Prep Ahead (When You Can)
If it involves glue, paint, or anything wet, set it up during naptime. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re not scrubbing acrylic paint off the dog.
Let Go of Pinterest Perfection
If your “Dad Rocks” frame ends up looking like a gravel explosion? Who cares. It’s about the moment, not the masterpiece.
So, What’s the Plan for Father’s Day?
I say keep it simple. Pick 1 or 2 activities from the list that actually sound doable for your crew. Maybe pair a craft with a backyard game, or just surprise Dad with a wild donut creation and a toddler-powered bubble storm.
Whatever you do, keep it fun, keep it screen-free, and keep it relaxed. (Because who needs another holiday that feels like a full-time job?)
Happy Father’s Day, Mama. You’ve got this ❤️
If you try one of these Father’s Day activities for kids, I’d love to hear how it goes! Tag me or drop a comment—especially if you’ve got photos of those epic toddler art pieces. 😉
