Many adults see rainy days as perfect for relaxing and curling up with a good book or a favorite movie. On the other hand, many kids see rainy days as boring. They want to run, play, and release their pent-up energy. The situation isn’t hopeless, though. There are many rainy day activities that are perfect for children of all ages.
As soon as kids begin to feel uptight and frustrated from being trapped in the house, they become destructive, and the kitchen table and chairs become jungle gyms. When the children begin to get the wiggles that comes with being cooped up, help them to release their energy in a productive manner. Turn the music loud and dance, or grab the broom and play “Limbo.” After their energy is released, the kids can do quiet rainy day activities.
Rainy days often lead to a craving for sweet treats, making baking one of adults’ favorite rainy day activities. Grab the kids and make some cookies, cakes or pies. Allow the children to do most of the work, except for handling sharp objects or touching the stove or oven. The kids will be very proud of themselves for accomplishing such as task. They will also be content with a tummy full of warm cookies and milk.
Rainy day activities often include art projects. This gives the kids a chance to stretch their imagination and improve their fine motor skills. Set the kids up in an area of the house that is easily cleaned up, such as the kitchen floor, sun room or covered patio. Allow them to explore the realm of their creativity.
Playing dress-up is one of a kid’s favorite rainy day activities. Pull out some clothes that aren’t worn often and have the kids dress up. Make it even more exciting by putting on plays. Make flashcards with different skit ideas and have the kids pick one out. If a video camera is handy, record it and let the kids watch it with a bucket of popcorn.
If rainy day activities just aren’t satisfying the kids, put on some rain gear and go puddle stomping. Rain won’t hurt the kids, and can be a nice change of pace. Worms, frogs and other amphibians usually make their debut in the rain, exciting nature lovers. Older children may enjoy having a scavenger hunt in the neighborhood. For those who don’t mind a little dirt, try putting together a game of mud football, and really soak up the rain.