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If your pre-schooler has ADHD and seems glued to their iPad after school, you’re not alone.
The toy room might be packed with great stuff, but they still reach for the screen. Why? Because screens give fast rewards—and ADHD brains light up for that.
But that doesn’t mean your child isn’t capable of playing on their own.
Often, it just takes the right kind of setup, a little creativity, and (let’s be real) a lot of patience.
If you’re hoping to ease off screen time and see your child actually engage with toys, these ideas can help spark independent play for ADHD kids.
Keep Fewer Toys Out
A room full of toys might look fun to us, but for an ADHD brain, it’s overwhelming.
Try a toy rotation system—leave out only a few types at a time. Store the rest in bins or closets.
Less clutter means fewer decisions, and that leads to more focused play.
Use “Invitations to Play”
Instead of expecting your child to walk into a room and figure out how to start, try setting up a simple scene that draws them in.
Think of it like a small prompt—a visual nudge that encourages them to jump in.
To make it easier, I created free printable “invitation to play” cards. Just print and place one next to the activity.
Grab them [right here] to keep on hand for those afternoons when the iPad feels like the only option.
Start Together, Then Step Back
You don’t need to entertain them all day. Just sitting with them for 5–10 minutes at the beginning of play can make a huge difference.
Once they’re into it, say something like, “You keep building while I go make a snack.” Leaving them mid-story gives their brain a reason to keep going.
Follow What Lights Them Up
ADHD kids are more likely to stick with activities that involve movement, hands-on action, or sensory input.
So instead of hoping they’ll like that puzzle, notice what they do gravitate toward—even if it’s not what you expected.
7 ADHD-Friendly Play Setups to Spark Independent Play
Here are some specific activities that work especially well for ADHD kids—especially after school, when their brains are tired and attention is low.
Each one uses simple materials and includes a printable card prompt to get things rolling.
Obstacle Course Mission
What You Need: Cushions, tape, laundry basket, stuffed animal
Card Prompt: “Your stuffed animal needs help! Can you carry it through the obstacle course?”
Why It Works: Movement helps regulate energy and attention.
Kinetic Sand Bakery
What You Need: Kinetic sand, 2–3 tools, small tray
Card Prompt: “Open your own bakery! Can you make 3 desserts?”
Why It Works: Tactile and calming—great for sensory seekers.
Magnetic Tile Village
You Need: Magnetic tiles, 2 animal or people figures
Card Prompt: “The animals need homes! Can you build them a village?”
Why It Works: Combines building with pretend play.
Sensory Bin Treasure Hunt
What You Need: Dry rice or beans, cups, 5 small hidden items
Card Prompt: “Find all 5 hidden treasures in the bin!”
Why It Works: Keeps hands busy and focus steady.
Costume & Role Play
What You Need: One costume, mirror, 1–2 props
Card Prompt: “You’re the doctor. Teddy has a fever. Can you help?”
Why It Works: Gives structure to imaginative play.
Colour & Cut Craft Table
What You Need: Printables, scissors, glue, stickers
Card Prompt: “Make your own puppet. What’s its name?”
Why It Works: Focused, quiet, and goal-oriented.
DIY Fort Kit
What You Need: Blanket, chairs, flashlight, clip
Card Prompt: “Build a secret fort. What’s inside?”
Why It Works: Full-body movement with a cosy result.
Want the Printable Cards?
I made it easy—just print, cut, and set one next to any play setup. These “invitation to play” cards are perfect for ADHD kids who need a little help getting started. Grab the full set [right here] and keep them in a drawer or basket for quick, screen-free activities.
Parenting a child with ADHD isn’t about perfection—it’s about noticing what works and building on those small wins. If your child plays for 5 minutes without a screen today, that’s a win.
