What Do Kids Like These Days? 31 Fun Things You Should Know

Sometimes, it’s the smallest things that light up a child’s whole world. Saying yes to an extra bedtime story, letting them pick the movie for family night, or remembering how they like their sandwich cut—it all matters. These moments may seem tiny to us, but to kids, they’re everything. 

They want to feel seen, heard, and truly loved. When you do something just because it makes them smile, it stays with them. 

What do kids like these days?

Often, it’s not big or flashy—it’s the everyday love tucked into the little things that make them feel special.

What do kids like these days? 31 things

Kids’ interests are always changing, but some things never go out of style—fun, creativity, and feeling understood. From toys and games to activities and small everyday joys, kids tend to gravitate toward what makes them feel happy and engaged.

If you’re wondering what do kids like these days, here’s a list of things kids like to do that covers what’s popular, entertaining, and meaningful to them right now.

1. Undivided attention

One of the things children love the most is, getting full attention. But, isn’t it true with we adults as well?
So, put that phone away and meet your child eye to eye. 

Really pay attention to them, and nothing else, and they will shower you with the purest love in the world.

Example: Sit down with them after school for 10 minutes, no distractions, just listening to how their day went.

2. Their world

It seems like one of the things what do kids like these days is living in a continual world of make-believe. As a parent, you have to be responsible and level-headed. But, once in a while, step outside of the adult zone and act more child-like.

One excellent way to do this is to join their make-believe world. 

• Example: Pretend to be a customer at their “pretend restaurant” and let them take your silly food order.

3. Creative pursuits

Kids love to create, even if what they are painting or gluing together isn’t a masterpiece. The important part is the process.

This is one of the most important lessons to be learned, as we, grown-ups are always more result-oriented. And, amidst the race of achieving success, we forget enjoying the process and living life!

• Example: Set up a simple art station with paper, crayons, and glue, and let them create freely without direction.

4. Dance parties

If you are ruminating over what do kids like these days, dancing is what they love! Dancing allows them to express themselves freely, and also, it is one of the best ways to exercise.

So, get a bunch of kid dance tunes going and let loose! Show your kids some of your own dance moves.

• Example: Have a five-minute dance break after homework time using their favorite upbeat song.

5. Cuddles

Cuddling is one of the things that all kids love. Kids need physical touch, and nothing is better than cuddles. Some kids ask for them, and others act up until you realize that they need a little love.

So, when you realize that your kids are unreasonably cranky, now you know what needs to be done!

• Example: Snuggle up with them on the couch while watching their favorite cartoon or reading a book.

6. Close friends

Kids love their parents, and nothing can alter this fact. But, at the same time, it is also true that they need people of their own age who love and accept them.

So, always encourage and help them foster friendships with other great kids.

• Example: Invite a friend over for a playdate and give them space to play, talk, and bond freely.

7. Structure

Kids won’t tell in words that they need rules and boundaries, but they will with their actions.
Kids who test boundaries and rules are actually checking the structure to see how strong it is. When they realize it is strong, they feel more secure.

• Example: Stick to a consistent bedtime routine—even on weekends—to give them predictability and comfort.

8. You notice things about them

Maybe your middle child is hilarious. So, if you point out that he is a comedian, it will make him all the more excited.

This way, when you notice something about your children, and you reinforce a trait to them, it will help them feel good and aid in building their confidence.

• Example: Say something like, “I love how kind you were to your friend today,” to make them feel seen.

9. Choice

Well, when you are thinking about what do kids like these days, try to also focus on what they don’t like. For example, children obviously don’t like to be told what to do.

As they age, they especially appreciate choices. Even if it’s a matter of choosing between which chores to do, or when they do to them, they love the power of choice. It helps them have a little bit of control.

• Example: Ask, “Do you want to brush your teeth before or after getting into pajamas?”

10. Quiet time

Kids also need moments of calm and quiet to recharge their energy. Having a peaceful space or some downtime helps them feel balanced and safe, especially after busy or noisy activities. Quiet time encourages mindfulness and self-awareness from a young age.

• Example: Create a cozy nook with pillows and books where your child can relax whenever they want.

11. Traditions

Birthday, festivals and other family traditions are the things kids like. These occasions allow them to get involved in various activities with their families and help them in fostering a feeling of togetherness.

When birthdays or holidays come, children look forward to decorating and celebrating in the same way your family chooses to celebrate.

• Example: Let your child pick the cake flavor or choose the decorations for their birthday party each year.

12. Photos and stories

Sure, they haven’t been alive all that long, but looking back at pictures of themselves and hearing stories about when they were little are things that kids truly appreciate.

So print some pictures for an album and tell them about when they were born, learning to talk, etc.

• Example: Create a “memory night” where you flip through old photos and share one silly or sweet story each.

13. Cooking

Don’t believe it? Cooking is one of the things kids love to do, especially when they are seeking some creative indulgence.

Get your child a little apron and invite them to get mixing! Whether it’s helping to make dinner or making a special treat, your little one will love just cooking together.

• Example: Let them stir pancake batter or place toppings on homemade pizzas during weekend meals.

14. Playing outside

One of the answers to what little kids like to do is, they love playing outside! Children get cabin fever if they’ve been cooped up too long. So, throw the ball back and forth, hop on your bikes, or go for a hike. Get outdoors and have fun playing.

• Example: Set up a mini obstacle course in the backyard using cones, chairs, or chalk paths.

15. Not to be in a rush

Stomping in puddles and smelling the flowers are just part of the fun when a kid goes anywhere. So if you’re headed to the store or doctor’s office together, leave early to factor in some time to not be in a rush.

• Example: Plan an extra 10 minutes on the walk home so they can collect pebbles or stop to watch ants.

16. Grandma and grandpa time

Kids have a special kinship with their grandparents, and spending quality time with them is one of the things kids love with all their heart. So, help facilitate a special time with their grandparents when they can bond.

• Example: Schedule a regular video call or in-person visit where grandparents share stories or do simple crafts together.

17. Showing interest

Maybe her love of the moment is a movie you don’t really like, but showing some interest in it will mean the world to your child. Showing interest in the things kids love can bring them close to you and take your bonding to another level.

• Example: Watch one episode of their favorite cartoon with them, and ask what they like about it afterward

18. Their artwork

Proudly displaying their creations is undoubtedly one of the things kids love. It makes them feel proud! Appreciate your kids when they do that. 

At the same time, encourage them to get better at their artwork by offering gentle praise, asking about their drawings, and giving them space to express freely.

• Example: Hang their latest drawing on the fridge and say, “I love how you used so many colors—tell me about this part!”

19. Regular one-on-one time

Especially if you have several kids, they each need their own time with you to connect and feel special. So, make sure to spend some one-on-one time with your kids and get heartily involved in things kids love. 

These moments remind them they’re seen, heard, and deeply valued.

• Example: Take one child out for a short walk or ice cream date where it’s just the two of you.

20. Hearing “I Love You”

Maybe you show your love to your child, but hearing it is excellent, too. So, be vocal and with all your heart say “I Love You” to your child and see the magic! These three simple words can help them feel safe, cherished, and deeply connected to you.

• Example: Whisper “I love you” during bedtime or say it randomly while hugging them during the day.

21. Listening

Your child may not be able to communicate all of their thoughts and feelings. Really listening will help them feel like you care and are hearing what they are truly saying. So, listen to them with presence. It teaches them their words matter and that you are emotionally available.

• Example: When they’re talking about something small—like a drawing or a school event—look into their eyes and respond thoughtfully.

22. A healthy environment

A clean and safe place to live, good food to eat, and all of the necessities of life are something kids will truly appreciate. Even if they don’t say it out loud, they grow in a nurturing environment where they feel both physically safe and emotionally secure.

• Example: Keep their play area tidy, involve them in meal prep, and talk about healthy habits casually during daily routines.

23. Silliness

Kids love to be silly, and they love it even more when their parents are silly. Letting loose and laughing together helps kids feel closer to you. It shows them that it’s okay to be playful and that joy doesn’t need a reason.

• Example: Make silly faces during breakfast or invent a goofy dance you only do together.

24. Guidance

Don’t tell your child what to do all the time, but rather guide them. Offer options and talk about what they want to do in life. This builds confidence and teaches decision-making while keeping the relationship open, warm, and respectful.

• Example: Instead of saying “Do your homework now,” ask, “Would you like to do your homework before or after snack time?”

25. Support

When a child’s favorite sport is soccer, and you support their passion and give them opportunities to pursue it, for a kid, there is nothing better. Feeling backed by their parents makes them feel brave, loved, and encouraged to dream big.

• Example: Cheer them on from the sidelines, help them practice, or show genuine interest in their latest hobby.

26. Feeling trusted

Kids blossom when they know you believe in them. Trust helps build self-esteem and independence. Whether it’s completing a small chore or handling a school project, showing that you trust them encourages responsibility and confidence.

• Example: Say, “I know you’ll remember to feed the pet today—you’re really good at keeping track!”

27. Helping others

Kids love feeling helpful and making a difference. Involving them in small acts of kindness teaches empathy and gives them a sense of purpose. Helping others becomes a joyful part of their character.

• Example: Invite them to help pack a donation box or make a card for a family member.

28. Getting messy

Whether it’s painting, baking, or digging in the garden, kids often love activities where getting messy is part of the fun. It helps them feel free, imaginative, and adventurous—without worrying about staying “perfect.”

• Example: Let them finger-paint outside or help knead dough during baking, even if things get a little wild.

29. Feeling included

Kids want to feel like they matter in the family. Whether it’s helping with simple decisions or being involved in small tasks, feeling included gives them a sense of value and belonging.

• Example: Ask, “Should we have pasta or rice tonight?” or let them help set the table with pride.

Watch this TED Talk by Chanda Renee Reynolds, licensed clinical psychologist, who emphasizes ways parents can support and improve their child’s mental health through practical, everyday strategies.

30. Surprise moments

It doesn’t have to be a big gift—sometimes a small surprise can light up a child’s world. Unexpected joy, even in small doses, makes them feel remembered and loved in the everyday.

• Example: Slip a tiny note into their lunchbox saying, “Can’t wait to hear about your day!”

31. Learning new things

Kids are naturally curious and love to learn new things, especially when it’s hands-on or playful. Encouraging their questions and discoveries supports their development and keeps their enthusiasm alive.

• Example: Try simple science experiments, visit a museum, or explore new hobbies together.

In nutshell

In the end, it’s not about grand gestures—it’s the everyday moments that leave the deepest mark. From warm hugs to silly games, kids remember how you made them feel. 

When you pay attention to the little what do kids like these days, you’re not just making them happy—you’re helping them feel seen, secure, and unconditionally loved.