Where I live, we have had any unusually wet winter. At first, it was a welcome change, but soon we found ourselves wishing for our sunny skies once more. For everyone’s sake and sanity, I’ve tried to plan activities that would be fun. Keeping ourselves moving, thinking, and play is always important, but rainy days somehow remind us just how necessary it is. So let’s think outside the box and play the ABCs to rainy days.
Action- Put on a play or skit. Improv or full out with costumes and props you’ll see your kids imagination at work.
Board Games- With so many to choose from your family will have hours of fun…no matter who wins or loses. But if you’re looking for a game that will take an hour or two of your time then look no further than to Monopoly or The Game of Life.
Cook- Let your kiddos play chefs. From simple meals to baked treats this is a sweet way to spend the day.
Dance Party- Sure there are video games to help with this, but if you don’t have one not to worry. Just crank up the tunes and jump around.
Explore- When it’s safe to do so take the family outside to discover how different your backyard/neighborhood looks after a storm. Take a journal a note the changes.
Fort Building- Whether it’s one giant fort or a kingdom of minis be ready to get out the pillows and blankets. Once the building is complete prepare to crawl around.
Google- With adult supervision log in and connect to a world of cute puppy videos, extraordinary acts of nature, and learn fun facts. It’s also an excellent time to make what they’ve been learning in school more understandable. A textbook can come alive with visual ads for your young scholar.
Hat Crafts- Making hats (or crowns) with items you have around the house is an easy and inexpensive way to create something fun and colorful. Take it further by having your kids put on a hat show where they model their creations.
Indoor Camping- Get out the sleeping bags (and tents if you have them) and set up camp in your living room. Gathering everyone around the pretend fire and tell stories all night long while enjoying camp s’mores and hot cocoa.
Jump in Puddles- Kids just can’t help but see a puddle and want to jump in it. So why not let them. Playing outside after a storm in their rain coats and boots is not only fun for kids, but can provide great photo opportunities for a parent whose always looking to capture a moment.
Karaoke- Of course there are video games and programs to help make this possible. But a simple radio and hair brush can be just as fun. Join in for karaoke hour at your place. And if you have any kiddos that and too shy to sing out then suggest a lip sync battle instead.
Letters- Writing letters has become a lost art. So this is a good time to have your kids sit down and write personal letters to family or friends who live out of state (or country). And don’t forget to have them include a colorful drawing.
Makeover- Now this activity can go two ways. First, your child can be the recipient the makeover. My daughters love having me do their nails, styling their hair, and letting them play with makeup. No big surprise there. The second option is that your child gives you the makeover. Depending on how daring you’re willing to get the more fun they’ll seem to have with it. Side Note: This is another perfect photo opportunity.
Noodle Art- What follows the rain, well a rainbow of course. Roll noodles into red, orange, yellow, green, blue…you get the picture, glitter and glue the sparkling pieces together to create a lovely rainbow.
Obstacle Course- If your kids are anything like mine they always seem to be climbing over and under furniture. So what fun it will be to have permission to do so.
Paint- Watercolors are my preference for this activity, but any paints will do. Set up your child’s drawing center near a window so they can have a view of the outdoors if they’re struggling with ideas of what to paint. Then sit back and watch their creativity unfold.
Quiet Time- I know you’ve been waiting for this one. On a rainy day what parent doesn’t hope for a quiet day spent indoors. And this is an activity that your child can take part in too. It’s important for children to learn how to enjoy quiet for themselves. What they do during quiet time can vary, but two rules stand; they must come up with how they’ll spend their time (parent approved of course), and it must be quiet. Kids are surrounded by noise daily so let’s give them a break too.
Read- Anyone can take the lead here. Read favorite stories, or have them share a new one with you. Every parent knows how beneficial story time is.
Show and Tell- Kids love to talk, and talk, and talk. Let’s sit down and listen to what they have to say. Show and tell is great practice for your child and could help them gain confident in speaking to an audience. And you’ll be happy to hear the things they remember, and to learn what makes that toy so unique to them.
Tea Party/Indoor picnic- Make an ordinary meal more fun. Using their play tables, or setting up yours with a little more kid flare. Have your children make place mats, or create a menu.
Umbrella Outing- Go for a walk…in the rain. OK, this maybe taking playing in puddles to the next level, but your walk will be another fun opportunity for your kiddos to play in the rain.
Video Games- If your household is anything like mine allowing your kid screen time is a huge deal. It almost has them wishing for rainy days.
Watch a movie- Huddle under fluffy blankets and watch movies or shows with your little ones. It’s an easy way to veggie out while keeping everyone close together.
X-marks the spot- Scavenger hunts are great to get everyone up and moving around. Look for everyday objects to test your kids knowledge on where household goodies are located or hid a special little item that they can enjoy once discovered (wrapped candy, or stickers work).
Yarn work- From preschool art to bed size quilts. Thread can be used to make a number of things. You are only limited by the amount of yarn you have.
Zzz‘s you made it through a rainy day…you deserve a good nights sleep.