Now that it's springtime, rainy days keep us cooped up more often. But there is still plenty of fun to be had, with just a pinch of creativity. Next time you're faced with a dark and dreary day, make the most of it with these fun family activities!
Splash in puddles
As long as it's not thundering and lightning, don't let the rain stop you from having a fun time outside. Grab a rain coat, rain boots, and an umbrella, and head out. Even if you're walking your usual route around the neighborhood, rain will create an entirely new sensory experience for your kids, with new sounds, puddles to jump in, and wet plants to observe. If you're lucky, you might even come across a few froggy friends!
Don't forget your gear! Check out these rain boots ($22.99), rain coat (from $21.99) and adorable umbrella ($21.99) on Amazon.
Learn about the Water Cycle
Not feeling like a messy adventure outdoors? Use this dreary day as a shining opportunity to learn about the water cycle! First, read The Water Cycle at Work (Water In Our World) together as a family. Point out the rain outside and ask your child to explain what's happening based on the book. Then, hop on over to this article to find one of our favorite rainstorm-in-a-bag crafts you can create together and hang in the window.
Board games
Who doesn't love a classic board game on a rainy day? Kids as young as three years old can start learning how to take turns with simple games like Count Your Chickens ($15.95).
For older kids, make Monopoly even more interesting with this Star Wars The Child themed set ($15.99). For school-age kids, try the simpler Monopoly Junior: Dinosaur Edition ($19.99).
Don't be afraid to change up the rules for a fun, fresh experience, too. For example, my son likes to pretend we are on a team in Candy Land and the spare playing pieces are the opposing team, so he gets to take extra turns making them go.
Build Your Own Story Boards
My sons love a good story. Lately I've been encouraging my oldest to come up with his own fantastical tales. Rainy days are perfect for sparking creativity, so put that imagination to good use and help your child bring his stories to life by crafting story boards!
First, write down your child's story on paper. Then, ask your child to help you illustrate scenes, cut out cardboard props like trees and buildings, and glue everything into place.
You'll want supplies on-hand like construction paper, markers, and a craft kit to add some pizzazz.
Baking
Baking is a great way to spend time together while also learning important life skills. Teach your child how to properly follow a recipe and measure ingredients. You'll be practicing sequencing, math, science, and even art if you choose to decorate your baked goods, all while creating a special yummy treat.
Make your child even more excited to help out in the kitchen with this adorable kids' cooking set ($44.95) with all the supplies they'll need, and it even comes with a chef's hat!
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It's that simple–No more complaining about being bored and stuck indoors on a rainy day. Beat the blues and watch your children learn something new while having loads of fun.
