Remember the magic of childhood? Days were filled with exploration, play, and creating without worrying if it was good enough. As adults, we rarely allow ourselves that freedom. But reconnecting with our inner child isn’t just fun—it’s a powerful way to recharge, spark joy, and feel alive again. Here are eleven activities to help you tap into that carefree creativity, including one of my personal favorites: making art with my iPad Pro.
1. Doodle or Paint
Who says art is only for “artistic” people? One of my go-to ways to spark creativity is by doodling or painting with no plan in mind. I use my iPad Pro and Procreate, which lets me play with different brushes, colors, and techniques—without the mess of traditional paints. although I do love painting as well. Whether you’re sketching animals or abstract patterns, the act of creating is therapeutic.
Curious about digital art? Check out these options to start your creative journey, there's something for every budget & screen size preference even a dedicated drawing tablet if you want to limit your distractions.
2. Build a Blanket Fort and Watch Childhood Movies
Activities That Spark Joy and Creativity
This one’s pure nostalgia. Grab some blankets, a few chairs, and build yourself a cozy fort. Once it’s ready, queue up your favorite childhood movies or cartoons. Not only is it a creative activity, but it also feels like a warm hug from the past.
I do this with my daughter and it's a different kind of joy getting to share shows that shaped my childhood like angry beavers, cat dog, cow and chicken and see her enjoying it alongside me.
3. Dance Like No One’s Watching THIS is One of Those Activities That Spark Joy and Creativity
Put on your favorite throwback playlist and dance around your living room. It doesn’t have to be graceful—it just has to be fun. Dancing is a wonderful way to shake off stress and tap into childlike joy. You don't even have to be good just find a rhythm and roll with it.
4. Create a Vision Board
Grab some old magazines, scissors, glue, and a poster board. Cut out pictures, quotes, and colors that inspire you. Vision boards are not only visually exciting but also a fantastic way to manifest your dreams and goals.
This is another thing I enjoy doing on my IPad Pro especially because I have a toddler so if I'm cutting things with scissors, she also wants to use scissors, and we can't have that happening yet haha.
5. Try Cooking or Baking as an Art Form
Think of your kitchen as a playground. Try decorating cookies, experimenting with new recipes, or plating dishes as if you’re a chef on TV. Cooking creatively not only engages your senses but also might result in something delicious.
I am addicted to Pinterest, and I love trying to recreate the recipes I find on there. They don't always come out great, but the process is fun and sometimes I create something damn good.
6. Journal Without Rules
Journaling doesn’t have to be serious or structured. Grab a notebook and write whatever comes to mind—random thoughts, doodles, or lists of things that make you smile. You can even try digital journaling on your iPad if you prefer which I do because I never run out of pages and my actual handwriting is atrocious.
7. Explore Nature With Childlike Wonder
Take a walk in your neighborhood or a nearby park, but this time, slow down. Notice the shapes of leaves, the texture of bark, or the way sunlight filters through trees. Bonus points if you collect leaves or flowers for a DIY craft project later.
If possible, leave the electronics behind and just enjoy being in the moment, this is a good time for reflection and tranquility.
8. Try Puzzle Games or Brain Teasers
Flex your mental muscles with puzzles or games that challenge your thinking. Whether it’s a classic jigsaw puzzle, Sudoku, or an app on your tablet, solving puzzles can be incredibly satisfying and engaging.
I absolutely love putting together a cute jigsaw puzzle while listening to music, its therapeutic and I'm able to be completely present instead of overthinking on other things. As for brain games Lumosity has been my go-to for apps, the more you play the more stats you see, and it tells you what areas need improvement.
9. Take Up Photography
Use your phone or camera to capture the world around you, focusing on interesting angles, shadows, or colors. Try creating a photo series based on a theme—like “things that make me smile” or “everyday textures.” it's fun and you can use your phone to do it.
10. Rediscover Coloring Books
Adult coloring books are everywhere these days, and they’re a wonderful way to unwind. Pick one with themes you love—whether it’s mandalas, animals, or inspirational quotes—and let the colors flow. This is an awesome way to get all that creative energy out even if drawing is not your forte. These are some cute coloring books, and I just discovered you can download these on the IPad and draw just like you would in a coloring book.
11. Build With LEGOs or Create With Clay
Tap into hands-on creativity by building with LEGOs or sculpting with clay. LEGOs are perfect for constructing whatever your imagination dreams up—whether it’s a miniature city or a quirky creature. For a more tactile experience, air-dry clay allows you to sculpt bowls, figurines, or even abstract pieces. These activities are calming and deliciously satisfying. I bought a sculpting kit years ago with all the tools and I still use them to this day. I like making little figurines out of my favorite anime characters.
Check these out.
Making Creativity a Habit
Life is busy, but setting aside even 15 minutes a day for creative play can work wonders for your mental health. Here are some quick tips:
Schedule It: Treat your creative time like any other important appointment.
Keep It Low Pressure: This is about fun, not perfection.
Share Your Creations: Whether it’s with friends or online, sharing adds a layer of connection and inspiration.
Find the Joy in Play
Rediscovering your inner child is about more than having fun—it’s about reconnecting with a part of yourself that might feel buried under adult responsibilities. Whether you’re doodling on an iPad, building with LEGOs, or wandering through nature, the goal is to enjoy the process.
So, what will you try first? Share your creative adventures in the comments—I’d love to hear about your journey. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about letting your imagination run free.
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