It’s raining outside, which means the kids are stuck inside with you (well, if you live in the Pacific Northwest like I do). Now that it’s dark out and everyone’s grumpy from the gloomy weather, what are you going to do? Never fear! Here are some fun things to do with kids on a rainy day
1) Go to the library
The library is the perfect place for children of all ages. The librarians there can help you find the perfect book, and they offer programming tailored specifically to kids. Plus, libraries are free and open almost all day! And even if it isn’t raining, it’s always a great idea to get out of the house. Try an indoor playground: A recent study found that these places can be just as good for kids as an outdoor playground. Indoor play spaces have better air quality than outdoor ones, and many of them provide opportunities for social interaction with other kids. If your child doesn’t like playing by themselves or with adults, this could be their chance to interact with other children their age in a safe space!
2) Have a bath playdate
When it’s raining outside, there is no better way to spend time together as a family than snuggling up in the bathtub. Our daughter loves playing with her bath toys and splashing around in the warm water. It’s so much fun! We also love reading books and singing songs before we get out of the tub and get ready for bed. The only thing that could make this day better would be if we had some delicious food to snack on while we play!
3) Play in puddles
Kids love playing in puddles! It’s one of the best things about being outside in the rain. They can splash and make huge puddles or do something more creative, like drawing with their feet! What fun ways have you played outside in the rain with your kids?
4) Craft project time
The rain is no excuse for the kids to be inside all day. Here are some ideas for what to do with them if it’s raining outside 1. Go on a nature walk and take some pictures of animals that live in your area. 2. Make indoor crafts like paper bag puppets or clay sculptures of animals, people, or your favorite cartoon character. 3.
5) Do some baking
Baking is an activity that almost anyone can do and it doesn’t require a lot of space. Plus, the end result is usually delicious! There are tons of recipes available online for cookies, cakes, muffins and other treats that you can make with your kids in the kitchen. Here are some of our favorites:
- Easy Pumpkin Pie Cookies – Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Muffins – Banana Bread Cookies – Lemon Coconut Cake
6) Go see the animals at the zoo or aquarium
The zoo is always an exciting place to visit, and on rainy days it’s even better. Your kids will love looking at the animals and seeing their cute little noses poking out from their shelters. Plus, all the different animal sounds will make for a fun sensory experience!
Get your tickets online ahead of time so you don’t have to wait in line.
7) Design your own board game
Designing your own board game can be an exciting and rewarding experience for everyone involved! It’s also a great way for kids to get creative and have fun while learning valuable skills. This game is called The Race of Life.
1) Write down the names of every person playing.
2) Use markers, crayons, or colored pencils to create images that represent their lives from now until they turn 100 years old.
8) Get out some sports equipment and try something new
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world, but it’s also easy to play and provides endless hours of fun. If you don’t own your own basketball hoop, you can even make one by tying an old piece of rope to the top of a tall tree branch.