On lovely days, it’s easy to keep the kids entertained. Nature walks, playdates at the park, sidewalk chalk on the driveway or just romping in the backyard - there’s no shortage of fun things to do. But when the weather turns rainy or just too hot, what’s a family to do?
Make it a game day
Teach your children classic games. Checkers and UNO are fun, even for younger kids. Children as young as four can begin to learn chess by being taught the names and rules of the pieces. You can break out some classic children’s games, too, like HiHo Cherry-o and Chutes and Ladders.
Give a concert
Drag out those toy instruments (or real ones, if you have them) and make some music! Use your bells, xylophones, drums and more and put together a rockin’ band. No instruments? How about pots, pans and wooden spoons instead? Yes, it’ll be loud. But it will also be worth it.
Play pretend
Playing make-believe is one of the joys of childhood, and a rainy day is the perfect day for it. Some of our favorites:
- Grocery store - stock the shelves with your own groceries, a toy set, or clean and empty boxes and containers you’ve saved. Set up the “register,” get a cart or basket, and a shopping bag, and take turns getting the groceries for the week.
- Camping - build a blanket tent (or set up a real one if you have the indoor space), make a pretend fire, pack your lunch, “roast” some marshmallows, and tell stories around the fire.
Water balloons
If it’s hot or wet outside, why not? Just set a few ground rules (no balloons to the face, please), and have a blast. (Here’s a hint: there are tools on the market now that make it easy to fill hundreds of balloons in just minutes. A wise investment.)
The number one rule for rainy days - be creative, and enjoy your time together. With just a little effort, you can have a great day and make memories to last a lifetime.