9 Easy Toddler Activities With Toilet Paper Rolls
If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for quick activities that don’t cost a fortune, make a huge mess, or need a trip to the store. You want something fun, educational, and doable for those “I’m bored” moments.
Let me just say that toilet paper rolls are gold, and ever since I figured this out, my “mom life” has never been the same again. They can be turned into hours of hands-on learning and creative fun, and the best part is that they are budget-friendly and safe for kids. And if you love quick crafts, check out my 10 summer crafts under 10 minutes
In this post, I’m sharing 10 easy ideas that transform toilet paper rolls into fun home play activities.
Why Moms Love Toilet Paper Rolls
Here’s why I always keep a stash of empty rolls in my supply basket:
- Toddler-sized and safe for little hands
- Eco-friendly and great for upcycled play
- Free and always available—no extra errands
- Versatile for pretend play, learning games, and art projects
- Skill-building through fine motor practice, problem-solving, and creativity.
Basically, they’re the MVP of low-prep crafting—and your go-to for 5-minute prep activities.
Let’s get into it……
1. DIY Binoculars for Pretend Play
Let your little explorer go on a backyard adventure with these simple toilet roll binoculars. Tape two rolls side-by-side, punch holes in each, and thread yarn through for a strap. Let your toddler decorate with stickers, markers, or paint.
Skills: Fine motor, pretend play, creativity
Mom Tip: Go on a nature scavenger hunt together after making them. You’ll both love it.
2. Stack & Match Game
Wrap 6–10 toilet paper rolls in colourful paper and draw simple shapes or patterns. Do the same on matching paper plates. Your toddler’s job? Match and stack! Then—knock it all down (because of course they will 😄).
Skills: Shape recognition, coordination, focus
Bonus: Great for independent play and experimenting.
3. Pastel Butterfly Craft
Spring vibes? Yes please. Paint your roll in a soft pastel shade, add paper wings, googly eyes, and pipe cleaner antennae. For more butterfly fun, check out my butterfly craft roundup.
Skills: Creativity, fine motor, sensory play
Optional Touches: Try adding tissue paper or buttons for texture
4. Toilet Roll Heart Stamps
Bend one end of a roll into a heart shape, dip it in washable paint, and stamp away on paper. This one is a big hit with my kids, especially for Valentine’s cards or just “I love you” notes.
Skills: Shape recognition, motor control, creative expression
Supplies: Toilet roll, paint, cardstock or paper
5. Colour Sorting Tubes
Wrap 4–6 rolls in different colours. Stand them upright on a cardboard base and hand your toddler a bowl of matching items—pom-poms, buttons, lids—and let them sort.
Skills: Colour recognition, independence, fine motor
Mom Tip: This one buys you at least 10 minutes of quiet time. You’re welcome.
6. Counting Caterpillar
Wrap 10 toilet rolls in fun paper and number them 1 to 10. Line them up in a caterpillar shape and ask your child to place matching amounts of small objects inside.
Skills: Number recognition, counting, early math
Cute Touch: Add eyes and antennae to the first roll to turn it into a caterpillar face.
7. DIY Bowling Game
Set up 6–10 toilet rolls like bowling pins. Give your toddler a soft ball and let them go wild. Decorate the rolls for extra fun.
Skills: Gross motor, coordination, indoor energy release
Rainy Day Win: This one saves the day when outside play isn’t an option.
8. Toilet Roll Marble Maze
Cut your rolls into quarters and glue them in a maze pattern on a cardboard sheet. Drop a marble or small ball in and tilt to navigate through.
Skills: Problem-solving, STEM concepts, fine motor skills
Variation: Make it vertical on a box lid for a new challenge!
9. TP Roll Hole Fit Game
Cut holes into a shoebox or cardboard lid and let your toddler slide toilet rolls into them. For extra fun, match the colours or numbers.
Skills: Hand-eye coordination, cause and effect
On-the-Go Tip: Keep this in your car or bag for mess-free play anywhere.
Conclusion: Don’t Toss—Craft Instead
Next time you’re about to toss a toilet paper roll, pause.
Because with just a little creativity, those rolls can turn into 10 minutes of peace, learning, and bonding—no Pinterest perfection needed.
These crafts aren’t just fun. They help your child learn, grow, and create memories with you. And isn’t that kind of the whole point? Want to build a simple craft kit at home? Grab my free checklist and 6 craft ideas to get started.
Which One Will You Try First?
Let me know in the comments! Or tag me on Instagram @3craftmama when you make one—I’d love to see your little one’s masterpiece.
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