Last Updated on May 17, 2021.
You don’t need to spend a fortune on toys. And having too many toys can create overwhelm for kids. So ditch the store-bought plastic toys and inspire your kids to be creative by creating custom handmade toys for hours of play! Here are a few ideas to get you started. You can involve your kids in the creation process for added fun.
Are you drowning in toys already? Before creating more toys, tackle the toy clutter with our guide to downsizing toys.
Baby Toys
Even the littles can enjoy homemade toys. Here are several super simple toys you can make in minutes to keep your baby occupied for hours.
Stuffed Dragon (Sewing Pattern)
Felt Toys
Handmade felt toys are soft, yet durable. It’s the perfect material for kids who are a little rough on toys. Check out these super simple felt toys!
Decorate Your Own Felt Gingerbread House
Cardboard Toys
Extra cardboard can be turned into amazing toys for kids! Try building a space shuttle or shop to encourage your kids to use their imaginations.
Matchbox Car Cardboard Tube Garage
Crocheted Toys
If you’re able to crochet, here are a couple of super easy toys your kids will love!
Bunny Finger Puppets with Accessories
Clothespin Toys
Clothespins aren’t as widely used nowadays, but a small pack of wooden clothespins can be turned into super cute creations. Check out these airplane and car toys!
Homemade Dolls
Homemade dolls can be tailored to your kids! If your little one loves a specific color, outfit, or hairstyle, you can customize your dolls to perfectly please your little ones.
Homemade Playdoh
Playdoh can dry out quickly, so making your own is a great way to save money! Plus, when you make your own, you know exactly what’s in it (which is especially important if you have a little one who puts everything in her mouth, like me!). Check out these super easy recipes.
Handmade Puppets
Puppets are so versatile. Create these super cute puppets and reuse them over and over again.
Goldilocks & The Three Bears Spoon Puppets
STEM Toys
Check out these amazing educational toy ideas. From learning about science through toy rocket ships to engineering your own pom pom shooter, these toys are sure to keep kids busy for hours.
Disney’s Toy Story Inspired Rocketships
Imaginative Toys
Inspire your kids to imagine their lives as rock stars or kings and queens with these imaginative play toys!
Other Fun Tutorials
Here are a couple of additional tutorials to keep your kids inspired at home.
Guide to Common Household Objects as Toys!
What You Should Do Next…
1. Snag Our Connected Parent Challenge
Are you ready for more activities to build a rock-solid bond with your kids? Try our Connected Parent Challenge! It’s 15 Days of 15 Minute activities that are sure to improve your connection, diminish bad behavior, and create lasting memories. Plus, I’ll deliver more amazing parenting strategies to your inbox weekly (don’t worry, unsubscribe any time!).
2. Join Our Free Online Community
Connect with like-minded moms (and dads!) in our free online community. You’ll find a plethora of resources to help you through your parenting challenges. Plus, you’ll find me there! And I’d love to connect.
3. Take a Free 60-Minute Parenting Webinar
Do you need actionable strategies right now? Register for this free 60-minute webinar titled How to Get Kids to Listen, Without Nagging, Yelling or Losing Control. You’ll walk away with parent-tested tactics to get your kids to listen starting today.
