As our garden gained a couple of inches of rain this week, I enjoyed watching my girls peeking out the windows to check on our tomatoes.
Just having a garden outside our window provides opportunity to watch the rain for a fun rainy day activity.
In this series on free rainy day activities, I have shared how we sometimes have an indoor picnic (part 1) and paint (part 2).
This week, I will share three more activities my children enjoy while the weather keeps them inside.
Bake Together
My children love to help in the kitchen, especially with desserts. When the weather is dreary and the temperatures cool our home, I am willing to turn on the oven, bake with them, and share in the end product.
My older daughter loves her Disney Princess Cool Bake Magic Oven. She enjoys making the little cakes and then sharing with her little sister. So sweet when they share!
Allowing my children to help with baking teaches skills in math (measurements), safety (hot, electricity, gas), and sequence (following directions). Though I can bake much quicker on my own, I choose to encourage my children to learn these skills while using time wisely baking together.
Make a Fort
Having a hideout or clubhouse is a special place to gather your toys and play. When he was younger, my son loved to hide behind our large recliner and called that place his clubhouse. My older daughter received a princess tent for a Christmas present, and she still loves to keep her special toys within those boundaries.
Besides these favorite hideouts, my children like to hide together. On these occasions, we pull out the sheets and blankets and create a space for all of them to share. Sometimes we build our fort in the living room or bonus room where they can hide and watch a movie or fall asleep.
Take a Nap
Speaking of falling asleep, my children beg to watch a movie in my bed where they usually fall asleep. Rainy days create the perfect nap environment for snuggling and getting some extra rest.
When the rain pours outside and you are looking for activities to keep little ones engaged, try to bake together, make a fort, and/or take a nap. With little ones, I find changing the routine or moving locations for meals, naps, etc. simulates their creativity. My children just need a little inspiration before they create new games for themselves.
On rainy days bring on the indoor fun. Once your children discover or remember these fun activities, you might find it difficult to get them back outside. 🙂 Happy playing!
Question: What activities do your children create on rainy days?