Play isn’t just for kids — adults benefit from it just as much, if not more, to be honest.
Letting your hair down and enjoying yourself in a carefree way helps relieve stress, increases creativity, and makes life just feel more fun. The problem is, many adults forget how to play, thinking it’s something they’ve outgrown or that it’s inappropriate once you’re past a certain age. That’s ridiculous and they’re seriously missing out! If you’re looking to bring more fun into your life, here are a few examples of play that any adult can copy.
1. Building something just for fun
Whether it’s a Lego set, a model plane, or even a DIY project, building things is a form of play that engages both creativity and focus. There’s something incredibly satisfying about starting with separate pieces and ending up with something you made yourself. It’s an easy way to feel accomplished while also having fun. You don’t need a reason to build; just pick something that looks interesting and enjoy the process. It’s a great way to switch off from stress and do something hands-on.
2. Playing board games or card games
Board games aren’t just for kids — they’ve made a huge comeback, with plenty of options designed specifically for adults. Whether it’s a strategy-heavy game, a fast-paced card game, or something ridiculous like charades, playing with other people brings out laughter and friendly competition. It’s a great way to connect with friends without relying on screens. Even solo games like chess or sudoku can be fun and mentally stimulating. Taking time to play a game, rather than always focusing on productivity, can help reset your mind.
3. Doing some spontaneous dancing
Few things lift the mood faster than dancing, especially when there’s no pressure to be good at it. Putting on your favourite music and dancing around the house is an instant way to shake off stress. You shouldn’t worry about looking cool; it’s all about moving your body and feeling free. Even just a few minutes of silly dancing can release tension and boost energy levels. The best part? You don’t need any equipment or planning, just music and a little willingness to let go.
4. Going outside to climb, jump, or explore
Kids naturally climb trees, balance on curbs, and explore their surroundings, but as adults, we forget to engage with the world this way. Finding a park, climbing on a fallen tree, or simply jumping over puddles can bring back that sense of adventure. It’s a playful way to move your body and break out of routine. Nature is the perfect playground, and interacting with it beyond just walking can make you feel more alive. Even balancing on a low wall or skipping for a few steps can bring out your playful side.
5. Creating something messy
Source: Unsplash Playing with paint, clay, or even baking ingredients brings out creativity in a way that doesn’t have to be perfect. Adults often avoid messy activities because they seem impractical, but getting your hands dirty with art or cooking can be incredibly freeing. There’s no right or wrong, just the fun of making something. Letting go of the need for everything to look good and just enjoying the process is what makes it playful. Whether it’s finger painting, splattering colours on a canvas, or decorating a cake with no plan, the mess is part of the fun.
6. Playing with a pet (or borrowing one)
Pets naturally bring out playfulness in people, whether it’s throwing a ball, running around with a dog, or dangling a toy for a cat. The joy animals show when playing is contagious, making it one of the easiest ways to bring fun into your day. Even watching them chase after something silly can make you smile. If you don’t have a pet, playing with a friend’s dog or even visiting an animal shelter can bring the same sense of fun. Animals remind us that play doesn’t need a purpose — it’s just about enjoying the moment.
7. Playing in water
There’s a reason people love swimming, splashing, and floating — it brings out a carefree feeling. Whether it’s jumping in waves, running through sprinklers, or simply wading through a stream, water play is refreshing and energising. It’s impossible to feel serious when you’re splashing around. Even something as simple as dipping your feet in cool water on a hot day can be playful. Water has a way of making people feel young again.
8. Trying a silly challenge
Setting ridiculous little challenges for yourself or with friends makes everyday moments more fun. Whether it’s balancing a spoon on your nose, seeing how many socks you can put on in 30 seconds, or trying to draw something blindfolded, playful challenges bring out laughter and creativity. The more pointless the challenge, the funnier it usually is. Competitions don’t have to be serious; sometimes, the best ones are completely absurd. The goal isn’t to win but to enjoy the process of trying.
9. Roller skating, scootering, or cycling just for fun
As kids, moving fast was exciting, whether it was on a bike, skateboard, or roller skates. As adults, these things often get replaced by practical transport. But taking a ride just for the fun of it, with no destination in mind, brings back that sense of freedom. Even if you haven’t ridden a bike or skateboard in years, giving it another go can be surprisingly fun. The sense of movement and momentum feels just as exciting as it did when you were younger.
10. Making up stories or silly jokes
Storytelling isn’t just for kids, you know. Making up weird scenarios, funny characters, or even nonsense jokes can bring out a sense of fun. Improvising a silly conversation or making up alternate endings to a TV show keeps the imagination active. It’s a simple way to bring laughter into any moment. Letting go of being serious and just embracing the ridiculous can turn a dull day into something more entertaining. The best part? You don’t need any equipment—just a little imagination.
11. Playing with shadows or reflections
Something as simple as making shadow animals with your hands or using reflections to create illusions can be surprisingly entertaining. Light and shadows create endless possibilities for play, whether it’s playing with a torch, making funny shapes, or watching how light shifts throughout the day. Engaging with your surroundings in playful ways makes even ordinary spaces feel more interesting. The simplest things can become fun when you let yourself be curious.
12. Throwing, catching, or bouncing objects
Juggling, playing catch, or simply bouncing a ball against a wall brings a sense of rhythm and focus. Something about repetitive movement — whether it’s tossing a coin or spinning a pen — keeps the hands busy and the mind engaged. It’s an easy way to bring playfulness into spare moments. Even activities like skipping stones, playing with a yo-yo, or flicking a bottle cap can be entertaining. Keeping the hands busy helps the mind relax.
13. Blowing bubbles
There’s something endlessly fascinating about watching bubbles float through the air. Blowing bubbles might seem childish, but it’s actually one of the simplest ways to tap into pure, uncomplicated fun. Watching them drift and pop is surprisingly calming and satisfying. Many things from childhood are still just as enjoyable as adults. Bubbles, like laughter, never really lose their charm.
