Best Fall Activities for School Age Kids

Alexis Jul 25, 2026
two children are painting an autumn tree on paper
two children are painting an autumn tree on paper

As the summer comes to an end, many parents and caregivers are looking for fun and engaging activities to keep their school-age kids entertained and active during the fall season. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, creative pursuits, or simply ways to keep your child's mind and body active, there are plenty of options to choose from. In this article, we'll explore some of the best fall activities for school-age kids, covering everything from sports and games to arts and crafts.

two children are painting an autumn tree on paper
two children are painting an autumn tree on paper

One of the best ways to get your child outside and active during the fall season is through sports. Many communities offer youth sports leagues for kids, covering everything from soccer and basketball to flag football and volleyball. These leagues provide a great way for kids to get exercise, make new friends, and develop important teamwork and communication skills.

Fall Leaf Suncatcher Craft for Kids
Fall Leaf Suncatcher Craft for Kids

Another great way to get your child outside and active is through organized games and activities. Many parks and recreation centers offer fall-themed activities like pumpkin decorating, hayrides, and scavenger hunts. You can also set up your own backyard obstacle course or host a game day with friends and family.

Fall Arts and Crafts

Fall Art Projects for Kids
Fall Art Projects for Kids

Arts and crafts are a great way to keep kids engaged and creative during the fall season. Many communities offer fall-themed craft classes for kids, where they can learn to make everything from leaf rubbings and pinecone bird feeders to handmade cards and decorations. You can also set up your own craft station at home, where kids can make their own fall-themed crafts using materials like construction paper, glue, and scissors.

Leaf Rubbings and Nature Crafts

this fingerprint fall tree craft is perfect for kids to do with their autumn leaves
this fingerprint fall tree craft is perfect for kids to do with their autumn leaves

One of the best ways to get kids engaged with nature is through leaf rubbings. This simple craft involves placing a leaf under a sheet of paper and rubbing it gently with a crayon or pencil to create a detailed impression of the leaf's shape and texture. You can also use this technique to create rubbings of other natural materials like flowers, branches, and rocks.

Another great way to engage kids with nature is through a scavenger hunt. Create a list of items for kids to find in nature, such as specific types of leaves, rocks, or birds, and see who can spot the most items on the list. This activity encourages kids to get outside and explore their surroundings, while also developing their observation and critical thinking skills.

Handmade Cards and Decorations

An Easy Fall Painting: Paper Roll Stamped Fall Tree
An Easy Fall Painting: Paper Roll Stamped Fall Tree

One of the best ways to keep kids engaged with arts and crafts during the fall season is through handmade cards and decorations. Kids can use a variety of materials like construction paper, glue, and scissors to create their own unique designs and decorations. You can also set up a craft station with pre-made templates and materials, where kids can create their own fall-themed cards and decorations.

Another great way to engage kids with arts and crafts is through a DIY project. Choose a specific project, like a handmade bird feeder or a set of fall-themed place cards, and have kids work together to create it. This activity encourages kids to think creatively and develop their problem-solving skills, while also providing a sense of accomplishment and pride in their finished project.

Outdoor Adventures

four glasses filled with different colored liquids and the words why do leaves experiment?
four glasses filled with different colored liquids and the words why do leaves experiment?

One of the best ways to get kids outside and active during the fall season is through outdoor adventures. Many communities offer guided hikes and nature walks, where kids can learn about the local flora and fauna while also getting exercise and fresh air. You can also set up your own backyard campsite or host a camping trip with friends and family.

Another great way to get kids outside and active is through a nature-themed game or activity. Many parks and recreation centers offer fall-themed activities like nature scavenger hunts, leaf collecting, and bird watching. You can also set up your own backyard obstacle course or host a game day with friends and family.

Fall Crafts for Kids: Beaded Corn Craft
Fall Crafts for Kids: Beaded Corn Craft
Coffee Filter Leaves – Easy Fall Craft Kids & Adults Love
Coffee Filter Leaves – Easy Fall Craft Kids & Adults Love
Corn Craft With Beads, Pipe Cleaner Indian Corn Craft, Indian Corn Bead Craft, Pipe Cleaner Bead Corn, Beaded Corn On The Cob, Diy Crafts Thanksgiving, Corn On Cob Craft, Corn Christmas Tree, Corn Arts And Crafts For Kids
Corn Craft With Beads, Pipe Cleaner Indian Corn Craft, Indian Corn Bead Craft, Pipe Cleaner Bead Corn, Beaded Corn On The Cob, Diy Crafts Thanksgiving, Corn On Cob Craft, Corn Christmas Tree, Corn Arts And Crafts For Kids
Fall Leaf Chalk Art | Chalk Pastel Art for Kids
Fall Leaf Chalk Art | Chalk Pastel Art for Kids
three children are playing with pumpkins in an outdoor play area that is painted orange and has the words pumpkin balancing on it
three children are playing with pumpkins in an outdoor play area that is painted orange and has the words pumpkin balancing on it
salt crystal leaves are fun science activity for kids to do in the kitchen or at home
salt crystal leaves are fun science activity for kids to do in the kitchen or at home
two children are making fall leaves out of construction paper on a table with scissors and tape
two children are making fall leaves out of construction paper on a table with scissors and tape

Guided Hikes and Nature Walks

One of the best ways to get kids outside and active during the fall season is through guided hikes and nature walks. Many communities offer guided hikes and nature walks, where kids can learn about the local flora and fauna while also getting exercise and fresh air. These hikes and walks provide a great way for kids to develop their observation and critical thinking skills, while also encouraging them to get outside and explore their surroundings.

Another great way to get kids outside and active is through a nature-themed game or activity. Many parks and recreation centers offer fall-themed activities like nature scavenger hunts, leaf collecting, and bird watching. You can also set up your own backyard obstacle course or host a game day with friends and family.

Backyard Camping and Outdoor Adventures

One of the best ways to get kids outside and active during the fall season is through backyard camping and outdoor adventures. Many communities offer backyard camping packages, where kids can set up their own tent and enjoy the outdoors while also developing their teamwork and communication skills. You can also set up your own backyard obstacle course or host a game day with friends and family.

Another great way to get kids outside and active is through a nature-themed game or activity. Many parks and recreation centers offer fall-themed activities like nature scavenger hunts, leaf collecting, and bird watching. You can also set up your own backyard craft station or host a craft day with friends and family.

As the fall season comes to a close, it's a great time to reflect on the many fun and engaging activities you've done with your kids. Whether you've gone on hikes, played sports, or created handmade crafts, the most important thing is to have fun and make memories with your child. So why not plan a fun fall activity today and see where the season takes you?