When bad weather keeps everyone stuck inside instead of playing out in the sunshine, it can be challenging to keep kids entertained. There are tons of activities you can try that’ll keep your wee ones busy – you’ll just need a little creativity and imagination. Beat the boredom blues with these fun rainy day activities for kids (that are fun for grownups too!).
Visit a Museum
Many local museums provide hands-on experiences that teach kids all about science, history, or art. Some museums cater specifically to children and include exhibits that encourage free play and sensory exploration.
Others may be more suitable for the little scholar in your life. They may contain displays including dioramas of taxidermied animals, electricity demonstrations, or feature-length galaxy films in a planetarium. Your local library may carry passes to help defray some of the cost of entry, so always check that out first.
Head to the Local Library
Speaking of the library, there’s nothing better than surrounding yourself with books on a rainy day (just ask our very own Story Time Lottie about that). Aside from the vast stacks of free books to choose from, many libraries offer special programs or games especially for children. If you need even more rainy day activities, your library will most definitely have a book or two for inspiration.
Science Experiments
Trying out a new science experiment or two can be a fun and educational way to pass the time when you’re stuck inside. Make a classic volcano, start germinating some sprouts for the garden, or make your own wacky lava lamp. Check out the STEM activities tab of the Lottie dolls website for more science projects you can do right at home!
Dabble with Art
There’s no better time to break out the art supplies than a rainy day. You’ll have dramatic mood lighting on a gray afternoon, perfect for painting a dreary landscape. Or, craft together bits and bobs from the recycling bin into an interesting sculpture. Get creative!
Bust out the Board Games
Everybody loves a good board game. Classics like Sorry or Trouble are big hits with the 4–7-year-old set, whereas Monopoly or Twister might be a bit more fun for older kids. If board games aren’t your cup of tea, you can always break out a deck of cards and learn a new game as a family, together.
See a Movie
Take a trip to the box office for this classic rainy day activity. Nothing good playing? Have a movie night at home! Set up your own pretend box office and snack stand, pop some popcorn, and fluff some pillows to settle in for your favorite flick. For the big movie buffs, make a whole day out of it and marathon through a trilogy – if you have the stamina.
Learn a New Hobby
If you want to try something totally new, the internet has a wealth of information on your kid’s new favorite hobby. Take an online course, watch YouTube videos, or check out some helpful books from the library. Whether they want to start rock collecting or water skiing, a rainy day is the perfect time to spark a new interest.
Take the Outside, Inside!
Had a big camping trip planned and now the weekend is going to be rainy and cold? Pitch a tent in the middle of the living room! If you don’t have a full tent, making a comfortable fort with blankets and sheets can be just as impressive. Now you’ll have all the comforts of home – with a fun twist on your weekend plans. You can even roast marshmallows in the microwave for some flame-free s’mores.
Splash Around Outside
Yes, we know it seems a little counterintuitive to take your activities outside when the weather is bad. Put on those galoshes, splash through some puddles, and try to appreciate the wet weather in a new way. The rain never stopped our friends in the Rain Boots Bundle, so it shouldn’t stop you either. Just dress for the elements and prepare to get cozy when you finally venture back inside.
Good Old Fashioned Boredom
This is probably one of the hardest activities for kids to handle, but it’s also one of the best. Boredom breeds creativity, and you’d be amazed what your kids can come up with once they’re left to their own devices. It can be a little painful at first to hear the rallying cries of “I’m so bored!”, but this is where the magic happens if you’re patient.
