Planning party entertainment for kids 7 and under can be tricky. You want activities that keep everyone engaged without needing a ton of setup or expensive supplies. The good news? There are plenty of classic, screen-free activities that can be adapted to match any party theme, from princesses to dinosaurs. Here are some tried-and-true favorites your guests will love. And the best part is that these can include toddlers and up!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I will only recommend things I have personally used unless otherwise stated.

1. Parachute Play

A parachute is a crowd-pleaser for toddlers through early elementary. It works indoors or outside and can fit right into your party theme, like “popcorn” with pretend kernels for a farm party or “shark attack” for an ocean theme.

Game ideas: mushroom lift, popcorn toss (with soft balls), cat & mouse, color call-out.

2. Puppet Show

Whether you put on the show yourself, invite a local performer, or set out a DIY puppet theater, kids love the interactive fun of puppets. You can tie the story to your party theme or let kids make their own paper-bag puppets to use during the show.

3. Bubble Station

Simple but magical, bubbles work for every theme and age. Offer wands in different sizes and a bubble machine for constant fun. You can even add themed bubble mix containers or let kids decorate their own bottles to take home.

4. Obstacle Course

Set up a short, safe obstacle course using things you already have — hula hoops, stepping stones, tunnels, cones. Name the obstacles to fit your theme, like “pirate plank,” “castle gate,” or “dinosaur stomp.”

5. Freeze Dance

Play music that matches your theme and pause it at random. Kids have to freeze in place when it stops. Bonus: add themed poses (freeze like a robot, superhero, or animal). One of our favorites is Kidboomers freeze dance and the floor is lava songs.

6. Craft or Creation Table

Set out simple supplies for kids to make something they can take home. It could be decorating crowns, painting rocks, making masks, or coloring themed printables. Keep it simple so it’s fun, not stressful.

7. Magnetic Stone Drop Game

This magnetic stone game is a fun one! Set up the string “arena” and give each child magnets to play. It’s simple, interactive, and quick, perfect for in-between activities. For more game ideas for pre-readers, check out my blog post:

8. Story Circle

Gather the kids and tell a short story related to your theme. Make it interactive by letting them act out parts, hold props, or guess what happens next. Works well as a calmer activity before cake time.

9. Scavenger Hunt

Hide themed items (plastic animals, toy coins, paper shapes) around your party area. Give kids simple clues or a picture list so even non-readers can join in.

Final Tips

Mix high-energy activities with calmer ones so kids have a chance to rest. Keep games short, around 5–10 minutes, and be flexible if a favorite activity runs long. With a little creativity, you can adapt any of these ideas to perfectly match your party theme.