Dollar Store Fun: 15 Easy Kid Activities Under $5

Creative, budget-friendly ideas to keep your little ones entertained with multi-purpose supplies

Winter is here, and with it comes endless opportunities for fun...and, let’s be honest, sometimes some moments where you’re scrambling for ways to keep the ideas fresh for the kids. I’m always the first to champion getting outside, no matter the season. Bundle them up, send them out to build a snowman or track animal footprints, and let nature do its magic. There’s nothing like fresh air to reset everyone’s mood. But let’s also acknowledge reality: sometimes the snow is too icy, the wind too fierce, or you’ve just maxed out your patience for zippers, mittens, and "Mom, my sock is crooked!"

That’s when we have to get a little scrappy sometimes. The truth is, we don’t always need to break the bank or buy expensive, single-purpose gadgets to keep kids entertained. (And don’t get me wrong— there are plenty of things in our house that get daily use that were an investment that I love and share about, so I am not saying never buy things you want or think are beautiful, because those serve a purpose too!) Overall, I am just all about using what you already have lying around the house/could use again—because sometimes, the best ideas come from a little creativity and the most ordinary items. Plus, anything that serves multiple purposes? Sign me up. These simple, resourceful activities are here to help inspire your likely fried-like-mine brain and to keep the kids engaged long enough for you to sip your coffee while it’s still hot, respond to that text, or heck, just breathe for a minute.

This winter, let’s embrace simplicity, resourcefulness, and maybe even a bit of fun. These ideas are easy, accessible, and all with supplies that can be found at a dollar store, each for under $5—no monkey-with-cymbals routine required. Some may be familiar and hopefully some new, that will jog a little inspo of your own. Let’s dive in!