Arts & Crafts

6 Reasons to Say ‘Yes’ to This Big Book of Activities for Kids

By: Alissa LaSovage
adult and kid playing an indoor DIY game
Ages 3-8
Creativity
Critical Thinking
Curiosity
Fine Motor Skills
Math
Reading and Writing
Science
Social Emotional

We don’t have to tell parents of preschoolers that little kids are B-U-S-Y. And while we can’t blame little ones for excitedly exploring the amazing things our world has to offer, this enthusiasm can often be exhausting for us grown-ups.

But what if you could somehow channel that boundless energy into quality kids activities that create core childhood memories? Wish granted.

The Highlights Big Book of Activities for Little Kids is the ultimate way to engage kids for hours on end, while helping families play, learn and grow together. Read on to see why.

Reason #1: Choose from over 200 repeatable, screen-free activities

Move over devices! Little ones will scramble to participate in the countless games, crafts, recipes, puzzles, stories, songs and other fun activities for kids in this one-of-a-kind book. Inspired by the award-winning Highlights High Five magazine, this Big Book of Activities is tailor-made to engage young children’s curiosity and fuel imaginative play. It fosters growth and inspires creativity with engaging activities centered around crafting, exploring, moving, reading and more.

Reason #2: Find activities for every moment throughout the day

Every day with preschoolers brings new interests and wonders. That’s why this book of kids activities includes hands-on play for every moment of the day. Need a quick boredom buster? Set a timer and find the objects listed in the Indoor (or Outdoor) Scavenger Hunt. Trying to wrangle a burst of energy? Play a game of Human Ring Toss or do the Animal Boogie. Ready for naptime? Quiet things down with a Hidden Pictures puzzle or an illustrated story, just like the ones kids love from High Five magazine. The best part is, every activity is non-consumable and repeatable, allowing your child to indulge their interests again and again.

Reason #3: Activities are easy to do and need little to no prep

Since life with little ones can change on a whim, the Big Book of Activities helps you find the perfect activity in a snap. The contents of the book are listed by both theme (12, including Let’s Cook, Let’s Discover, Let’s Pretend) and by interest (10, including superheroes, rainbows, monsters, space). Activities use household or easily attainable items, and most are low mess. Those that require more cleanup are clearly labeled with a “Mess Alert,” keeping you one step ahead and ensuring smooth sailing throughout the day. Parent tips and extension questions accompany each chapter and activity, making it easy for kids to get the most out of their play. The Let’s Sing section even includes a QR code to help you learn tunes and take songs wherever you go!

Reason #4: Little ones will build skills while they play

Like all Highlights products, this deluxe book of activities for kids was developed by early childhood experts to help children learn through play. As kids engage with Sponge Splash, Tongue Twisters, Plate-o-saurus, Jetpack Adventures and more, they’ll hone fine and gross motor development, critical thinking, social learning, self-regulation, problem solving, concentration, resilience and other essential life skills.

Reason #5: You’ll get quality time with your little one

Perhaps the most valuable takeaway from these fun activities for kids is the time you’ll spend together with your little one, making memories as you plan a Spy Escape, play Tape Games, cook Veggie Bugs and much more. Open-ended questions accompany the activities, sparking conversations and creating meaningful moments out of your daily routine. You’ll set the stage for collaboration and promote a lifetime of communication and connection.

BONUS Reason: Activities for random acts of kindness

Not only does this book help little ones become their best selves, it helps them care for others, too! There’s a full chapter of stories, games, crafts and ideas dedicated to emotions, gratitude and community. Through these activities, your child can practice empathy and compassion, making kindness a habit now and as they grow.

Try The Highlights Big Book of Activities for Little Kids for over 200 screen-free, hands-on activities for kids ages 3-6 and their grown-ups to do together!

Alissa LaSovage
By: Alissa LaSovage

Alissa LaSovage has been writing for kids and families for more than 20 years. When she's not in the midst of a parenting adventure with her twin boys, she likes to read, travel, and spend time outdoors.