10 Fun and Innocent April Fool's Day Tricks for Children

April Fools' Day, observed on April 1st in the majority of countries, is characterized by the custom of playing practical jokes.

What Happens During April Fool's Day?

These practical hijinks may include actions like pretending someone's shoelaces are untied or sending them on futile errands. Although the day has a long history, its exact origins remain uncertain. It shares similarities with ancient festivals such as the Hilaria in Rome, celebrated on March 25th, and India's Holi, which ends on March 31st.

Some believe the modern custom originated in France with the Edict of Roussillon in 1564, shifting the start of the new year from Easter to January 1st. Those adhering to the old calendar were mockingly dubbed "April Fools." Others contemplate the timing of the day connects to the vernal equinox on March 21st, a period marked by unpredictable weather changes.

While April Fools' Day is commemorated differently across countries, the typical theme is the opportunity to play jokes on others.

In France, the tricked individual is called "poisson d'avril" (April fish), and children often affix paper fish to the backs of unsuspecting friends.

In Scotland, the day is known as Gowkie Day, possibly linked to the cuckoo, symbolizing folly and cuckoldry. Newspapers and media outlets also engage in worldwide by publishing inaccurate headlines or stories as part of the fun.

If you're a family that enjoys playful hijinks, you might find the selection of April Fool's pranks for children enjoyable. Whether your family is seasoned in jest or seldom indulges in humor, a cleverly planned trick is bound to bring laughter. The key lies in knowing your audience and venturing beyond the usual prank calls and typical gags like whoopee cushions.

For some creative inspiration, explore our compilation of April Fool's Day pranks for kids, and perhaps find a few that parents can enjoy too.

10 Practical Jokes Suitable for Children on April Fool's Day

1. Dough... Not

For older kids who can handle a twist in their snack, try transforming an apple into a delicious doughnut with these easy steps:

Peel, core, and halve an apple horizontally. Shape the bottom with a knife to resemble a doughnut. Melt candy melts and dip the apple halves, then add sprinkles. This prank offers a tasty treat with a healthy twist!

2. Cereal Surprise

Add a fun twist to breakfast by hiding realistic-looking gummy worms in your kid's cereal bowl for an amusing reaction.

3. Pop Goes the Carpet

Surprise your child with hidden bubble wrap under their rug for an unexpected "pop" when they step on it.

4. Meatloaf Surprise

Make a savory meatloaf and mashed potato "cake" for dinner, offering a humorous twist on a classic dish.

5. Good-Morning Gag

Trick your kids into thinking it's a school day on a weekend, then surprise them with a special breakfast outing instead.

6. Faux Cookie Dough Dip

Serve up a delicious bean dip that looks like cookie dough, providing a healthy and surprising snack.

7. Charcuterie Change-Up

Create a meat and cheese board with a sweet twist using cookies and candy instead.

8. Micro Meal

Pack a tiny lunch in a matchbox for a humorous surprise.

9. The Colossal Popsicle

Make an oversized ice pop for a delightful prank that can be enjoyed afterward.

10. Trick Treats

Replace candy wrappers with unexpected healthy snacks for a surprising treat.