Five Calming Activities for Kids ... That Don't Require Tons of Prep or End with a Huge Mess!

As we're approaching the end of the school year, parents all over the country are wondering: "Whaaaat am I going to do with my children all day during the summer?!"

Going from the routine of the school day to an open-ended summer schedule can be a big adjustment for both kids and parents. And while summer is all about fun, we know that not every activity needs to be high-energy, super messy, or require a ton of planning. That’s why we’ve rounded up five calming activities for kids that are easy to set up, won't leave your house in chaos, and give everyone a little breather.

So, take a deep breath (and maybe grab some Good Day Chocolate Calm for yourself!), and let’s dive into some simple, mess-free ways to keep kids entertained and relaxed this summer.

1. DIY Sensory Bins (No Fancy Supplies Needed!)

Sensory bins are a fantastic way to engage kids in quiet, focused play. The best part? You can use things you already have at home! Simply grab a shallow bin and fill it with items like dry rice, beans, pom-poms, or kinetic sand. Add in small toys, cups, or spoons for scooping and sorting. It’s a great activity to encourage fine motor skills while keeping little hands busy—without the sticky, glittery mess.

2. Nature Scavenger Hunt (Calm Exploration)

Take the fun outside with a low-key nature scavenger hunt. Instead of a high-energy race, encourage your kids to quietly observe and collect small nature treasures like smooth rocks, flowers, or leaves. You can even bring a sketchpad and have them draw what they find. It’s a simple way to connect with nature while promoting mindfulness and curiosity.

3. Storytime & Coloring (A Double Dose of Calm)

Nothing soothes the soul quite like a good book! Pair read-aloud time with a relaxing coloring session to create a peaceful environment. Set out coloring books, crayons, or watercolor paints (bonus: they’re way less messy than markers or glitter). As they color, read a story aloud or play an audiobook. It’s a great way to slow down the day and let imaginations wander.

4. Gentle Yoga or Stretching (For Wiggly Bodies)

Kids have lots of energy, but that doesn’t mean they need to be bouncing off the walls! A short yoga or stretching session can help channel that energy in a calm and mindful way. Try simple poses like "cat-cow," "butterfly," or "child’s pose." If they need guidance, check out kid-friendly yoga videos online. Add some soft music, and you’ve got yourself a mini relaxation retreat!

5. DIY "Calm Jars" (A Magical Visual Relaxation Tool)

A "calm jar" is a super easy craft that doubles as a mindfulness tool. Fill a clear plastic jar or bottle with water, a few drops of food coloring, and some glitter. Seal it up tight and let your child shake it. As the glitter slowly settles, it creates a mesmerizing effect that helps little ones regulate emotions and practice patience. It’s a great go-to for winding down after an exciting day.

Wrapping Up: A Calmer, Happier Summer

Summer doesn’t have to be a whirlwind of loud, chaotic activities. With these five calming, mess-free ideas, you’ll have simple go-to ways to keep kids engaged, entertained, and relaxed—without spending hours prepping or cleaning up afterward.

And if you need a little extra help in the calm department, don’t forget about Good Day Chocolate Calm for Kids—a delicious, kid-friendly supplement with a gentle blend of chamomile and L-theanine to support relaxation.

Here’s to a fun, peaceful summer for the whole family!