While the start of spring means warmer days are just ahead, it also comes with plenty of rainfall. Although spring showers are what give us beautiful flowers and foliage throughout the season, being stuck indoors with nothing to do is no fun for kids (or grown-ups!). Having a few activities in mind can help you stay prepared when rainy days come your way. Here are 6 engaging activities you and your kiddos will love.
Jump, jump, jump!
Kids love to jump – especially in puddles. It can be a fun way to add some excitement to an otherwise gloomy day. Puddles give your little ones the opportunity to explore the natural world outside their homes. Ask them questions to get them thinking about nature – Can you see your reflection in the puddle? What’s inside the puddle or what is it made of? Is the puddle big enough for fish and other critters to live in? What happens to the puddle when the rain stops and the sun comes out?
In addition to getting children curious about the science behind puddles, jumping in puddles can improve their motor skills. We know things can get messy, but being prepared with rain boots, waterproof pants, and raincoats can help your kiddos stay protected, have fun and learn something new!
Spark minds at a museum
While some kids may enjoy an active day outside, others may lean more towards a calmer activity like learning at a museum. Many museums offer free passes for little ones and some have specific hours or days where it’s free for the whole family! A little bit of googling can give you a list of museums that are a short drive away. Do some prior research into the various exhibits being displayed at these museums and visit the ones you and your kids are most interested in.
A cozy movie marathon
Looking for ideas for the perfect movie marathon? Choosing a theme is a fun way to explore different movies, and picking out snacks or a meal to go with that theme can take your movie marathon to the next level. How about an under-the-sea theme? Start with the classics like The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, or Moana.
Have a family cook-off
A family cook-off can come in many shapes and sizes. But one thing they all have in common is the tasty treats that bring smiles to everyone’s faces (and tummies!). Here are a few ways you can have some fun in the kitchen:
- Give everyone in the family the same feature ingredient and have them come up with a dish that includes it. Surprising them with an unusual ingredient will everyone on their toes and give them an opportunity to flex their kitchen creativity!
- Choose one recipe to follow and get into teams. Have a relay race and see who can complete the entire recipe the fastest. At the end, give out prizes for different categories – one for the best tasting, another for the best presentation, and so on. This way, everyone is a winner!
- Bake up a batch of cookies or cupcakes and have a decorating contest. From funny creations to artistic masterpieces, you’ll get a chance to bring out your designer skills.
- If you’re not feeling competitive, you can simply get the family together in the kitchen and enjoy making something together. Each person can be responsible for one step of the recipe and it can be a great bonding experience. Start off with a simple recipe like this healthy Tangy Omega Yogurt Bark for your mid-day snack or this gut-friendly Probiotic Whipped Cream recipe to top off your hot chocolate, smoothie, or fruit bowl.
Build an indoor obstacle course
Setting up an indoor obstacle course can keep your kiddos occupied for the day. From planning the course to experimenting with different materials, it can help them work on their coordination, problem-solving and thinking skills. Here are a couple of ideas that use household materials for some inspiration:
- Unfold cardboard boxes to create tunnels
- Tie strings between furniture to jump over, crawl under, or limbo through
- Use pillows as stepping stones
- Lay down blankets to create trails or pathways
- Incorporate hoola hoops to wiggle through
The possibilities are endless – put on your thinking caps and get creative!
Find your inner musician
Having a karaoke night can be loads of fun! Head over to YouTube and find karaoke versions of your favourite songs. You can even make a game out of it by facing away from the screen and seeing how many words you and your kids can get right! Or make it an entire performance by adding lighting changes, dance routines and costumes. Whether it’s the theme song to your child’s most-watched show or a song by an artist you love, singing your heart out can be the perfect way to end a rainy day.
Rainy days can feel a little dull, with dark and gloomy clouds and constant rainfall. But the good news is that there are always ways to add a little bit of fun even while you’re stuck indoors! Which activity are you going to try first?
