This $5 IKEA Find Is the Hero of My Snow Day (It Keeps My Kids Busy for Hours!)

When my family is stuck indoors, finding screen-free activities to keep my 3- and 6-year-old kids entertained is always a challenge. My go-to, biggest crowd-pleaser? The IKEA MÅLA drawing paper roll. I start to unroll the 32 yards across our kitchen floor, break out every crayon, stamp, and pencil we own, and let the creativity begin.

While the roll also fits my children’s IKEA MÅLA easel, there’s something special about unrolling it directly onto the floor. And to change it up, I sometimes have the kids (or even their favorite toys) lie down on the paper so I can trace their outlines. The best part? It’s just $4.99, and once one side is covered you can flip it over and use the reverse. It’s great for keeping boredom at bay during snow days, rainy days — essentially any time we’re inside!

The IKEA MÅLA drawing paper roll is a longtime bestseller, and for good reason: At 17.75 inches wide, the paper is sturdy and thick enough to handle markers, paints, and crayons without easily tearing. Reviewers love its versatility, noting it’s great for art projects but can also be repurposed as wrapping paper. Just note, it’s only available for delivery on orders over $35.

I love that the MÅLA is so versatile. It allows kids plenty of space to create and, depending on how fast they draw, it can last for months. I usually keep a few around at all times, and leave one at my mom’s and in-laws’ houses for visits. It’s so easy and can offer hours of screen-free entertainment. 

My only minor gripe is the packaging — give yourself a couple of minutes to peel off the sticker that unrolls the paper. Despite that, the IKEA MÅLA is my absolute favorite indoor activity. Go ahead and add it to your cart!

Buy: IKEA MÅLA, $4.99