Rainy Day Activities With Your Little Ones

You know what they say about April showers …

When the skies turn gray and the puddles start to form, it’s easy to feel cooped up indoors. Rainy days can especially feel like a recipe for restlessness when you’ve got little ones in the house. But let’s reframe that – because they’re also full of potential for magic and memory-making!

Whether you’re braving the drizzle or staying snug inside, here are some rainy day activities for kids that will turn even the grayest day into an adventure.

Don’t be too quick to shut the door on outdoor fun just because of a little rain. With a few waterproof layers and a spirit of adventure, soggy skies can become a backdrop for curiosity and creativity. Raindrops shimmering on leaves, the smell of fresh earth – there’s something undeniably magical about exploring the world in the rain.

Grab those boots and let the jumping begin! Puddle hopping is a classic for a reason – it’s joyful, energizing and a great way for kiddos to get their wiggles out. Bonus: It helps build balance and coordination, too.

Let your child draw on thick paper using washable markers or watercolors, then bring their creations outside to meet the rain. Watch as the drops turn their designs into dreamy, blended works of art.

A rainy stroll can open your child’s eyes to the way nature shifts with the weather. Point out the glistening trees, the worms emerging from the soil, the different sounds water makes as it hits leaves, roofs or puddles. This kind of sensory play nurtures mindfulness and wonder.

No need to keep quiet – belt out a few favorite songs together under the cloudy sky. Singing outside can turn a regular walk into a stage-worthy performance, complete with laughs, hand-holding and maybe even a few twirls.

If the weather is a little too intense for puddle play, there’s plenty of cozy, creative fun to be had indoors. These indoor activities for kids are perfect for burning energy, sparking imagination and making sweet, screen-free memories.

Pillows, couch cushions, cardboard boxes – suddenly your living room is a ninja course. Indoor obstacle courses help littles practice coordination and problem-solving while getting all those wiggles out.

Rainy days and fresh-baked cookies? Yes, please! Simple baking projects invite kids to learn, measure, mix and (of course) taste. They’re great for math skills, fine motor development and creating comfort through routine.

Lay out markers, glue, paper and a few recycled treasures and let their imaginations lead the way. Crafting is a go-to for rainy day activities for kids – and a great way to encourage self-expression.

Blanket forts never go out of style. Set up a “tent” in the living room, grab flashlights, read a few stories or munch on trail mix for the full effect. It’s part play, part bonding time and all cozy fun.

Turn up the tunes, put on your comfiest socks and let the living room become your stage. A family dance party is a joyful, heart-pumping way to shake off the rainy day blues.

After all the excitement, don’t forget to wind down. Simple wind down activities like deep breathing, stretching or a short guided meditation for kids can help calm busy minds. Pair it with some relaxing music for kids and you’ve got a beautiful way to end the day on a peaceful note.

Rainy days might keep you indoors (or get you a little muddy), but they’re also a chance to slow down and reconnect. Whether you’re dancing around the kitchen or splashing outside, these activities for kids are little reminders that some of the best memories are made in the most unexpected moments. So go ahead – embrace the rain, enjoy the mess and make the most of this time together.

Looking for more rainy day activities? How about a good book? Here are 10 children's books we love.