Folder games are portable, quiet and can be used to teach children about matching. Use folders without pockets. Open a folder and draw each letter of the alphabet on the left flap. Laminate the entire folder and attach a small square of nylon fastening tape next to each letter. Print a set of small cards showing each of the letters, laminate them and attach a square of nylon fastening tape to the back of each one. Attach strips of fastening tape to the right flap of the folder and stick on the letter cards. To play, children must attach each letter card to its match. When they're done, children can return the letter cards to the right side of the folder, preparing the game for the next child to play.
Creating art work independently allows children to experiment and be expressive, rather than following directions to make a specific craft. Set up a section of art supplies that children are allowed to use independently. Include paper, crayons, colored pencils and stickers in this area. Preschoolers shouldn't use paints without supervision, since this can be messy. Designate a table where children may use these supplies during free time. If they have access to art supplies and an assigned place to use them, children won't need any help getting to work.
When a preschooler sits down in front of a pile of blocks, chances are good that he has a specific vision for what he wants to create. Divide your block collection into smaller buckets or bags, so children easily can choose a set of blocks without having to share. Set out some children's books about construction and architecture nearby for the children to use as reference if they wish. If each child has some time alone to create a building, he'll be able to focus on his project.
Throwing balls helps children learn aim and control, and it can also provide antsy children with some necessary stimulation. These don't have to be group activities if you set up some independent throwing games for children to play. Fill a bucket with bean bags. When children want to play, they can dump out the bags, set the bucket several feet away and see how may bean bags they can toss into the bucket. Make the game more challenging by cutting holes out of a large piece of cardboard. Children can place this piece on the bucket and try to get bean bags through the holes.