Are the skies dark & stormy? As all parents know, nothing is worse than kids being stuck indoors with nothing to do. While you may be tempted to turn on some cartoons or give them your smartphone, there are some fun, easy activities that you can do that don’t involve added screen time.
- Pretend Play
Sometimes, the best rainy day activity for kids is to let their imaginations run wild with some pretend play toys. If your kid loves to shop at the grocery store, set them up with the Shop ‘n Learn Smart Kitchen and watch as they pick out tasty food, scan it themselves, and bag it on the working conveyor. If your child loves to tinker with cars, put them in the mechanic’s seat of the Construct ‘n Learn Smart Workbench and see what they create. Or ignite your tike’s curiosity as they pretend to be a scientist with the STEM Jr. Wonder Lab. Kids are sure to forget the dreary weather when they’re immersed in a world of their own imagination.
- Pencil-and-Paper Games
From Hangman to Sprouts, pencil-and-paper games are an educational alternative to TV. Gather some pencils and paper, take a seat at the Tracing Art Desk, and check out some of these classic pencil-and-paper games. Sprouts, Hangman, and Dots are a great way to develop your child’s spelling skills, problem solving abilities, and vocabulary.
- Play a Board Game
While a board game may seem like a simple solution, it’s a classic for a reason. A board game is a great way to get the whole family engaged. There are so many new, fun board games out there, so you’re sure to find one that is the right level for your kids (while still being exciting for you, too). Board games help kids develop their communication skills and teach them to follow instructions.
- Get Crafty
Collect everyday items like popsicle sticks, beads, or cardboard from around the house. Gather some glue and markers and let your kids craft to their hearts content on their art desk. Be by their side to help fill in and piece things together if they need help. Whether they create an art piece or a birdhouse, they’ll love the opportunity to create something special.
- Give Back
Even if you can’t make it out into your community to help out, your little ones can give back from home. Sit down with your kids and make some cheerful crafts for a good cause. You can also have your kids go through their toys and figure out which ones they no longer want or use. Make a pile of all those things that they have outgrown or don’t use anymore and put them in a box to donate. When the skies clear, drop off the toys for kids at your local hospital or homeless shelter.
For more ways to keep your kids engaged and learning, check out all these Little Tikes pretend play toys.
