jumping in puddles rainy day things to do

Rainy Day Activities for Kids: Fun Indoor Ideas to Keep Them Entertained

Rainy Day Fun: Turn Gloomy Days into Memorable Adventures

Rainy days don’t have to dampen your spirits or your kids’ energy. With a little creativity, you can transform a gray day into a time of fun, connection, and exploration. Susanna Klingenberg, our learning content director, shares her favorite strategies for making the most of indoor days with your little ones.

1. Embrace Audio Books with a Twist

Combine storytelling with hands-on activities!

  • Put on an audiobook and let the kids play with blocks, beads, or a train set while they listen.
  • Pro Tip: Check out the Libby app for free audiobooks to entertain the whole family.

2. Get Crafty

Create a dedicated craft zone and unleash your kids’ imaginations.

  • Use art supplies for free crafting or follow a planned activity.
  • Pro Tip: Lay down a soft, waterproof shower curtain liner to catch messes—it’s reusable even with paint stains.

3. Indoor Scavenger Hunt

Turn your home into an exciting treasure hunt!

  • Create a bingo board with items to find, like “round objects,” “things with fur,” or “something that makes mom smile.”
  • No time to make one? Use our pre-made scavenger hunt!

4. Family Board Game Fun

Rainy days are perfect for classic games.

  • Try “Speed Shoots & Ladders” with a timer or cooperative games for something new.
  • Pro Tip: Explore more great board game ideas in our dedicated post.

5. Bake Together

Turn your kitchen into a baking haven.

  • Make cookies, muffins, or cakes with your kids.
  • Pro Tip: Plan ahead by assigning specific tasks to each child. Only attempt this if you have the time and energy to make it fun!

6. Build an Indoor Obstacle Course

Encourage movement with a creative course!

  • Use furniture, pillows, and painter’s tape to design obstacles like zig-zag lines or jumps.
  • Pro Tip: Painter’s tape is a game-changer—grab a roll during your next Target run!

7. Try Something New Together

Step outside the routine with a little adventure.

  • Fold paper airplanes, taste new foods, or watch a nature show about exotic animals.
  • Pro Tip: Let your spontaneity shine—your enthusiasm will make it even more special.

8. Stay Active with Exercise

Beat rainy day blues with kid-friendly workouts.

  • Try Cosmic Kids Yoga or any streaming workout you can do together.
  • Pro Tip: Make it a family affair—kids love when grownups join in!

9. Make a Splash with Puddles

If it’s safe, head outside for some wet fun.

  • Grab rain boots and hunt for puddles to splash in.
  • Pro Tip: Peppa Pig fans will love jumping in “muddy puddles” like their favorite character.

10. Elevate Bathtime

Transform bath time into a special event.

  • Use kitchen utensils, floating balloons, or glow sticks for extra fun.
  • Turn on a podcast or upbeat music for a lighthearted atmosphere.

Make the Most of Rainy Days

Rainy days are a great opportunity to focus on your kids and create lasting memories. When you’re present in their activities, it often inspires them to play more independently afterward—win-win!

Looking for more ideas and resources? Nurtured Nest provides self-paced online learning for parents on our unique learning platform. Learn more about our courses here.

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