Keeping your little one engaged this fall doesn’t have to be hard! Check out these simple, budget-friendly fall activities for toddlers that will make the most of your season.
Does your toddler seem to have endless energy these days?
Fall is the perfect time to get outside, explore nature, and soak up all the cozy vibes with your little one.
Whether you’re looking for ways to entertain them during the week or planning a fun family weekend, I’ve got you covered with some easy fall activities that are both fun and educational. Let’s dive in!
1. Leaf Collecting & Sorting
Take your toddler on a walk around the neighborhood or to the local park to collect fallen leaves.
Once you get home, have them sort the leaves by size, color, or shape. This is fun and helps with their fine motor skills and color recognition.
2. Pumpkin Painting
Carving pumpkins with a toddler can be a little… messy, but painting them is the perfect alternative!
Grab some washable paint and let your little one go to town on a mini pumpkin.
Plus, this keeps their creative juices flowing without the worry of sharp tools.
3. DIY Fall Sensory Bin
Create a fall-themed sensory bin with items like dried corn, acorns, small pinecones, and fake leaves.
Add in some small scoopers or cups, and let your toddler explore different textures and practice scooping and pouring.
4. Apple Picking
A visit to the local apple orchard can be a fun family outing. Toddlers will love picking apples and running through the orchard.
Once home, you can extend the activity by making a simple apple snack together, like sliced apples with peanut butter or apple sauce.
5. Fall Nature Walks
Head out for a nature walk and turn it into a scavenger hunt.
Give your toddler a simple list (with pictures) of fall items to find—like acorns, pinecones, or yellow leaves.
This will help them learn about nature while keeping them active.
6. Pumpkin Patch Visit
A classic fall activity! Take your toddler to a local pumpkin patch. Many patches offer hayrides, corn mazes, and petting zoos, which are perfect for keeping toddlers entertained.
Plus, it’s a great photo op for those fall family pics.
Check out this Pioneer Woman post about the Best Pumpkin Patches to visit in the US!
7. Play in a Leaf Pile
Raking up leaves doesn’t have to be all work—let your toddler jump, run, and play in a pile of leaves.
The crunchy sound and feel of leaves underfoot will keep them entertained for quite a while, and it’s a fun way to burn off some energy.
8. Fall Art & Crafts
Let your little one’s creativity run wild with some simple fall-themed art projects.
Grab some construction paper, non-toxic glue, and crayons to create fall trees, pumpkins, or even handprint turkeys.
These projects are easy for younger toddlers and help build their fine motor skills while encouraging creativity.
9. Fall-Themed Books
Cuddle up with some cozy blankets and read fall-themed books together.
Books like “The Little Old Lady Who Wasn’t Afraid of Anything” or “Duck & Goose Find a Pumpkin” are perfect for toddlers and capture the spirit of the season.
10. Drive to See Fall Foliage
Sometimes, the simplest activities can be the most magical.
Pack up your toddler, grab some snacks, and go for a leisurely drive or stroller walk to take in the colorful fall leaves.
Toddlers love looking out the window, and the bright reds, oranges, and yellows are a treat for their senses.
Plus, it’s a peaceful way to enjoy the season together.
Want to keep the conversation going during your drive?
Check out my list of fun road trip questions to ask toddlers. It’ll help keep them engaged and make the drive even more entertaining.
Final Thoughts on Fall Activities for Toddlers
There’s no shortage of fun fall activities to keep your toddler busy while enjoying the beautiful season.
From leaf collecting to apple picking, there are so many ways to help your little one explore the world around them while creating special memories together.
So grab your sweater and your toddler’s favorite snacks, and head outside for some seasonal fun!
