Spend time teaching your child the benefits of yoga. 

Physical Activities for Kids' Stress Relief

1. Yoga

Practicing yoga can help slow kids' minds and allow them to feel more centered. Some simple and effective yoga poses for kids are tree pose, child’s pose, and downward facing dog. The Yoga Education Institute also has videos with some fun yoga games for kids.

2. Dancing

Dancing is one of the best things to do with kids to relieve stress and get those jitters out. Turn on your kids’ favorite music and have a dance party! Try some of these easy TikTok dances for kids and families.

3. Running

Engage in short sprints or try a fun run to encourage kids to release energy and get physically fit.

4. Swimming

There's something about being in water that's such a great stress relief. Hit up a local pool, lake, or other body of water and engage in some splash therapy.

5. Biking

Riding bicycles around the neighborhood or park combines exercise, exploration, and fresh air. You can also try one of these fun ride on toys for kids of all ages.

6. Jump Roping

Break out the jump rope for some exercise that uses a rhythmic, physical activity that can be both fun and calming. Here are 20 jump rope workout games and songs for kids.

7. Hiking

Hit the trails to help kids de-stress by connecting with nature and enjoying physical activity. These hiking games for kids will up the fun factor.

8. Trampolining

Encourage kids to jump on a trampoline to release energy and experience the joy of bouncing.

9. Exercise Games

Kids can release feel-good endorphins and have some fun with these 30 exercise games.

10. Stretching

Stress can cause tension in the muscles, and some simple stretches can help relieve that tension. This YouTube video has some great stretching exercises for kids.

11. Pickleball

Pickleball has become a nationwide craze because it's a fun and affordable way to blow off steam and get some exercise. Learn all about pickleball here.

12. Team Sports

Exercising and spending time with friends are both stress relievers, and team sports combine the two. Whether your child is interested in soccer, baseball, or a different sport, sign them up for a local team and watch their competitive spirit fly. (If it's baseball, these Little League drills can help give them an edge.)

13. Shooting Hoops

If you don't have a basketball hoop, head to a local park and let your kiddo shoot some hoops. The swish-swish of sinking baskets will melt the stress away.

Blowing bubbles is a great indoor or outdoor activity, and you can feel stress melting away!

Sensory Activities for Kids' Stress Relief

14. Playdough

Molding and shaping playdough helps kids de-stress by engaging their hands in a calming, tactile activity. Take it a step further and help kids make their own playdough with this easy playdough recipe.

15. Sensory Bins

Sensory bins filled with rice, beans, and other materials gives younger kids a soothing, hands-on sensory experience. Here are 10 sensory bin ideas.

16. Water Play

Playing with water is one of the most refreshing and calming activities for kids that really engages their senses. Try one of these 35 water games for kids.

17. Slime Making

Creating and playing with slime is a fun, hands-on activity that can be both soothing and satisfying. Here are five simple but cool slime recipes to make with kids.

18. Bubble Blowing

Blowing and chasing bubbles promotes relaxation and joy through a simple, playful activity. Check out our list of the best bubble guns to really up your bubble game.

19. Fidget Toys

Use stress balls, fidget spinners, cubes, and other fidget toy to help kids de-stress by providing them with a tactile way to release nervous energy and focus. Check out our list of top fidget toys for kids.

20. Sensory Bottles

Watching glitter and water swirl around sensory bottles is a visually soothing and mesmerizing experience.

21. Texture Exploration

Feeling different textures like fur, silk, and sandpaper helps kids de-stress by engaging their sense of touch in a calming and curious way.

22. Aromatherapy

Use essential oils in a diffuser to help create a relaxing atmosphere with soothing scents. The whole family will get some stress relief!

23. Weighted Blankets

A weighted blanket provides deep pressure stimulation that promotes relaxation, security, and a sense of calm.

24. Bubble Wrap Games

Popping bubble wrap can instantly relieve stress in a very satisfying way. You can also try some of these hilarious bubble wrap games for kids.

25. Taking a Bath or Shower

A soothing bubble bath or shower can be just what a kid needs to feel refreshed and recharged. If you have a toddler, add a few of our favorite bath toys to the tub.

26. Squeezing a Stress Ball

It literally has the word "stress" in its name, so it's no surprise that a stress ball is a handy tool for relieving tension.

Quiet Activities for Kids' Stress Relief

27. Reading Books

Kids can escape into a different world with a good book and concentrate on something other than their stress. Here are 100 kids' books every child should read before they grow up.

28. Reading Magazines

Reading magazines can also help kids unwind and de-stress. Check out our list of the best magazine subscriptions for kids.

29. Meditation

Practicing mindfulness meditation helps kids to relax and focus on the present moment.

30. Journaling

Keeping a journal allows kids to express their feelings and release pent-up emotions, aiding in stress relief.

31. Writing Stories or Poems

Creative writing can help kids process their emotions, work through various scenarios, and express themselves, thereby reducing stress.

32. Making a Gratitude List

It's common to focus on the negative when we're stressed. Making a list of things they are thankful for will help kids remember all of the positives in their lives and improve their mindset. They can even add something new to the list each day!

33. Napping

Lack of sleep can be one of the biggest causes of stress. If a child is having a particularly stressful day, taking a nap or going to bed earlier can be just what they need. Get some tips on how to help kids sleep better here.

34. Deep Breathing Exercises

Deep breathing can lower kids' heart rates, allow their muscles to relax, and calm their bodies and minds. Have them try some of these deep breathing exercises for kids and teens.

35. Daydreaming

Teachers may discourage daydreaming in class, but at home, kids can let their minds wander freely to reduce stress. Whether they imagine they're at Disney World or they're meeting their favorite singer, daydreaming can be a great way for kids to relax.

36. Writing Letters

Writing a letter to a friend or family member can be as therapeutic as journaling. An added benefit: It promotes bonding and fosters connection.

37. Exploring Websites

Surfing the web can be soothing for kids as long as it's done in moderation—and the sites are kid-friendly. Here are 100 great websites for kids that are both entertaining and educational.

38. Mindfulness

Mindfulness is being aware of your thoughts, emotions, and surroundings in the present moment. Encourage kids to practice mindfulness by observing what's around them and paying attention to what they're feeling and thinking.

Creating art can reduce stress they may be experiencing and can help improve their mood.  Photo by Sara Marentette

Art Activities for Kids' Stress Relief

39. Drawing and Coloring

Kids can use coloring books or free coloring pages to express their emotions and relax, promoting creativity and mindfulness. Try some of these free printable stress relief coloring pages for kids.

40. Painting

Painting provides a creative outlet that encourages expression and relaxation. For a unique painting experience, try making fizzy sidewalk chalk paint, painting rocks, or even painting with water guns!

41. Clay Modeling

Sculpting figures or scenes using clay is a relaxing and tactile way for kids to express themselves.

42. Origami

Folding paper into intricate designs helps to strengthen focus and calm the mind, providing a soothing and meditative activity.

43. Scrapbooking

Create personalized photo albums to enjoy a trip down memory lane, combining creativity with a sense of accomplishment.

44. Making Friendship Bracelets

Friendship bracelets are all the rage, and swapping them with friends is a feel-good activity. But the process of making the bracelets is also very therapeutic and fun. Kids can make traditional beaded bracelets or try these recycled t-shirt friendship bracelets.

45. Sand Art

Create layered designs in bottles with colored sand, offering a relaxing and visually appealing activity that encourages focus.

46. Collage Making

Use old magazines or greeting cards to cut out pictures and make collages, encouraging creativity and self-expression through artistic composition.

47. Sewing

Our roundup of the best sewing machines for kids includes some easy sewing tutorials for beginners, like pillowcases and patchwork quilts.

48. Paper Airplanes

The repetitive motion of folding paper can be very soothing—not to mention immensely satisfying when you get those perfect creases. Teach kids how to make the best paper airplanes with our handy tutorial.

49. Paper Crafts

When your kiddo tires of paper airplanes, they can cut and fold paper into these 30 easy paper crafts instead.

50. Photography

Take photos and create albums to capture moments and explore artistic vision through visual storytelling.

51. Rainbow Crafts

Bright colors leave no room for negativity! Try one of these 21 rainbow crafts to replace stress with smiles.

52. Cardboard Box Crafts

How can turning cardboard boxes into a house, car, or puppet theater not melt your child's stress away? Here are 50 genius things to do with cardboard boxes.

Best Toys and Games for Stress Relief

53. Board Games

Playing board games with family helps kids by fostering connection and providing fun, interactive challenges. Here are the 100 best board games for kids and family game night.

54. Card Games

Enjoying card games like Uno or Go Fish is a simple, entertaining activity that promotes relaxation and social interaction. Here are 25 card games every kid should know.

55. Role-Playing Games

Engaging in imaginative role-playing games allows kids to de-stress by exploring creativity and escaping into different characters and scenarios.

56. Blocks and LEGO Bricks

Making structures out of LEGO bricks and other blocks helps kids focus their minds on building and creating, which can be calming and satisfying. When they get bored of building, they can try some of these 101 fun things to do with LEGO bricks.

57. Magna-Tiles

Magnetic tiles are another great building toy with endless play possibilities. Here are 50 Magna-Tiles games and building ideas for kids.

58. Puzzles and Puzzle Games

Doing puzzles can help kids de-stress by engaging their minds, promoting focus, and providing a sense of accomplishment. Here are some great puzzle games and jigsaw puzzles for kids.

59. Math Games

Math-related games require a lot of focus and make kids feel proud when they beat them. Try some of our favorite math games for kids, from online math games to math board games.

60. Word Games

Word games are another fun way to build concentration and give kids a stress-melting sense of accomplishment. Try one of these daily online word games or these printable word puzzles for kids.

61. Chess

Chess requires a level of focus that can really help center a child. Try these online chess games that will teach kids to play.

62. Educational Video Games

We all know how easy it is for kids to get hooked on video games, but playing educational video games can be a great stress relief for children as long as they don't overdo it. Here are 20 free online games for kids to help them de-stress and maybe even learn a few things.

The ocean, sand, and sun are the perfect relaxing day for many kids. Photo by Jody Mercier

Outdoor Activities for Kids' Stress Relief

63. Beach Time

Play in the sand and surf with family and enjoy the relaxing sounds and sensations of the beach. Check out our essential beach list before you pack up the car!

64. Picnics

There's little more soothing than enjoying a delicious meal in the fresh air.

65. Camping

Sleeping under the stars is a great way to unplug and enjoy the soothing sounds of nature. Check out our guide to backyard camping with kids, or find some awesome campsites in our Camping Travel Guide.

66. Flying Kites

Flying kites on a windy day helps kids de-stress by engaging in a fun, outdoor activity that encourages focus and relaxation.

67. Nature Scavenger Hunts

Look for specific items in nature and turn being outside into a fun and engaging game of exploration. Our list of indoor and outdoor scavenger hunt ideas includes some nature-focused hunts.

68. Gardening

Planting and tending to a garden helps kids connect with nature. Check out our guide to backyard gardening with kids, or learn how to create a pollinator garden to attract butterflies, which are soothing to watch.

69. Bug Hunting

Safely explore and learn about insects to foster curiosity and provide a focused, hands-on activity.

70. Star Gazing

Star gazing is a peaceful activity that fosters relaxation and wonder in kids.

71. Bird Watching

Bird watching can help kids connect with nature and focus as they observe and note the behaviors of different birds.

72. Playground Fun

Fresh air, physical activity, and fun provide the perfect recipe for stress relief. Hit up some local playgrounds and let kids swing, climb, and slide their worries away. 

Cooking can be relaxing and meditative. Photo by Jody Mercier

More Activities for Kids' Stress Relief

73. Hanging Out with Friends

Have friends over for playtime to provide social interaction and enjoyable activities with peers.

74. Volunteering

Help in the community to foster a sense of purpose, empathy, and connection with others. VolunteerMatch is a great place to find volunteer opportunities near you.

75. Theater and Drama

Kids can participate in local theater groups that promote self-expression, confidence, and creativity through performing arts.

76. Making Videos

Filming and editing videos allows kids to engage in a creative process that combines storytelling with technical skills.

77. Watching Movies

Relaxing with a favorite movie provides kids with a break from daily stressors, offering entertainment and a sense of comfort. Our list of the 75 best movies for kids has some great picks for family movie night.

78. Spending Time With Animals

Petting, cuddling, and playing with animals provides kids with companionship, comfort, and a sense of connection. It can also decrease levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.

79. Listening to Music

Listen to music to promote relaxation, improve mood, and provide a therapeutic outlet for emotions.

80. Counting

There's a reason counting sheep can help you fall asleep, right? Kids can calm their minds by counting, whether it's counting items such as money or simply counting in their heads.

81. Traveling

Shaking up the routine, getting a change of scenery, and exploring a new place together can bring the entire family out of a rut. Our Family Travel Guide will help you plan your next family vacation.

82. Singing

Belt out some tunes and let the stress melt away! Try some of these 100 top sing-along songs for kids.

83. Learning New Skills

Trying new hobbies like knitting or coding helps kids de-stress by engaging their minds in a fun and productive way. Here are 100 sports and hobbies for kids to try.

84. Online Classes

Take fun and interactive online courses to help kids de-stress by providing a structured yet enjoyable way to learn new things.

85. Museum Visits

Explore local museums as a family and immerse kids in new environments filled with fascinating exhibits. Our list of the best children's museums and the top children's science museums in the US will help you find some great ones.

86. Library Visits

Spending time in the library with family provides kids with a quiet and enriching environment for reading and exploration.

87. Learning a New Language

Engage in learning a new language to develop new skills in a fun and engaging way.

88. Cooking

Making simple recipes as a family is a great a hands-on activity that promotes bonding and a sense of accomplishment. Try one of our 100 top easy recipes for kids.

89. Baking

Baking cookies or cakes with parental guidance provides kids with a fun, tactile activity that results in a delicious reward.

90. Telling Jokes

Laughter is the best medicine, right? Here are 75 jokes for kids and 25 funny knock knock jokes that will help children giggle the stress away.

91. Science Experiments

Conducting easy and fun science experiments with parents helps kids de-stress by engaging their curiosity and zest for learning in a playful manner. Here are 67 easy science experiments for kids.

92. Drama and Theater

Act out stories or emotions by engaging in role-playing activities that encourage creativity, expression, and emotional processing.

93. Spa Day

Bring the relaxation of the spa to your house and treat the kids to an at-home spa day. Our list of the best teen skincare and pimple patches kids are obsessed with has plenty of product ideas.

94. Massage Therapy

Give kids gentle massages to promote relaxation, reduce muscle tension, and enhance overall well-being through tactile comfort.

95. Talking

It's not healthy for anyone to hold in feelings of worry, sadness, anxiety, stress, or anger. Just like adults, kids can benefit greatly from talking about these feelings with a trusted adult, a friend, or a licensed therapist.

96. Organizing and Decluttering

Clutter can be a major source of stress, forcing kids to constantly scramble to find missing items. Taking the time to clean and organize their rooms—and to purge things they no longer want or need—can lead to stress-free days ahead

97. Random Acts of Kindness

Spread good vibes and stress relief by doing some of these 25 random acts of kindness.

98. Healthy Foods

Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains keeps kids' bodies strong and healthy, thereby reducing stress.

99. Compliments

Encourage kids to give themselves one compliment a day. It can be anything from I got a perfect score on my math test to I'm a good friend.

100. Crying

They can try every stress-relief activity on this list, but sometimes the best thing a kid can do is just cry it out. We all need a good ugly cry every now and then!