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Free Rainy Day Activities For the Summer

40+ Free Things to Do With Kids in the Summer When It Rains

Jun 12 2018

Although summertime is built for outdoor adventures like biking, swimming, and having picnics, Mother Nature can sometimes have plans of her own. There is nothing that will dampen a kid's Summer spirits faster than the arrival of a rainy day, and as a parent, we aren't all that fond of them either since they require last-minute activities to entertain our kiddos that don't break the bank. But, if you plan ahead and have a backup in place for days when the weather goes awry, you all may have such a great time that you'll start looking forward to the next rainy day! Keep reading for 40+ creative and fun rainy day activities for all ages.

Image Source: Unsplash / Allen Taylor

1. Ages 2-4

Toddlers are natural explorers, so if you have to keep them cooped up indoors all day, be prepared to have some interactive adventures planned.

  • Finger-paint masterpieces
  • Have a puppet show with socks
  • Go to the library for story time
  • Have your own story time with pillows and twinkly lights
  • Play together with blocks
  • Put together a puzzle
  • Have a dance party
  • Play Simon Says
  • Sing songs together
Image Source: Unsplash / Daiga Ellaby

2. Ages 5-8

This is a great age because children have better motor skills and impulse control by now. Take advantage of that and dive into more complex activities.

  • Play hide and seek
  • Create a collage with paint
  • Make an obstacle course throughout the house
  • Make a fort with all the blankets you can find
  • Have an indoor beach party with towels and snacks
  • Do an at-home facial together
  • Listen to an audiobook
  • Make a music playlist for the whole family
Image Source: Unsplash / rawpixel

3. Ages 9-12

Older kids might be more willing to try something new, so urge them to think outside the box!

  • Have a scavenger hunt with prizes
  • Make your own scary movie
  • Discover sudoku together
  • Create a slideshow of your last family holiday
  • Try guided meditation with an app
  • Play musical instruments with makeshift items
  • Play dress-up with costumes
  • Write letters to family members far away
Image Source: Unsplash / Patricia Prudente

4. Ages 13+

Teenagers can be a challenge to keep engaged and off devices, but zoom in on whatever is of most interest to them and you'll have a captive audience in no time.

  • Watch a horror film together
  • Have an all-day movie marathon
  • Have a pillow fight
  • Help reorganise their room
  • Cook a new recipe together
  • Introduce them to your '90s playlists
  • Teach them to play poker
  • Learn how to make origami
  • Make s'mores by roasting marshmallows over the stove
  • Read the Harry Potter books aloud
Image Source: Unsplash / Allen Taylor

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