Rainy days have a way of throwing a wrench into our plans. Whether it’s a canceled trip to the park, a postponed playdate, or just restless kids bouncing off the walls, the challenge is real. But here’s the good news—being stuck inside doesn’t have to mean endless screen time or hearing “I’m bored” every five minutes. With a little creativity, you can turn a gloomy, drizzly day into one filled with fun, laughter, and memories. In this blog I’ll be sharing 10 fun kids’ activities for kids.
These 10 fun kids’ activities for rainy days are easy to set up, use things you probably already have at home, and keep little hands and minds busy for hours.
1. Indoor Obstacle Course
Who needs a gym when you have pillows, chairs, and a little imagination? An indoor obstacle course is a perfect way to burn off energy and get kids moving.
How to Set It Up:
- Use pillows as stepping stones (lava game, anyone?).
- Tape a “balance beam” on the floor with painter’s tape.
- Crawl under tables, jump over stuffed animals, or do jumping jacks between stations.
- Time each round and see who can beat their own record!
Want to make it even more fun? Print out Obstacle Course Challenge Cards with different actions like “Hop on one foot,” “Do 5 jumping jacks,” or “Crawl like a bear.”
2. DIY Fort Building
There’s something magical about building a fort. It’s cozy, secret, and instantly makes any rainy day better. Plus, it gives kids a special little hideaway for reading, playing, or even napping (wishful thinking, but hey, a mom can dream).
Fort Ideas:
- Use couch cushions, blankets, and chairs to create a classic fort.
- String up fairy lights for an extra cozy touch.
- Turn it into a “book nook” with pillows and a stack of their favorite books.
- Make it a “movie fort” and bring in a tablet or small TV for a mini-theater experience.
A printable Fort Building Guide with different fort styles (castle, spaceship, secret hideout) would add to the fun!
3. Rainy Day Treasure Hunt
Turn your house into a mini adventure with a scavenger hunt. You can make it as simple or elaborate as you want, depending on how much time (and patience) you have.
Easy Ideas:
- Create a list of household items for kids to find (e.g., “Something soft,” “Something round,” “Something that smells good”).
- Hide small treats or prizes around the house with clues leading to the next location.
- Pick a theme—pirates, jungle explorers, or detectives—and let them dress up.
A printable Treasure Hunt Map or Scavenger Hunt Checklist would make this activity even more exciting.
4. Homemade Playdough or Slime
Few things entertain kids as much as squishy, moldable playdough or stretchy, gooey slime. Plus, making it yourself is half the fun!
Easy Playdough Recipe:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Food coloring (optional)
Mix everything together and knead until smooth. Add essential oils for a fun sensory experience!
For a printable Playdough Mat, create fun templates like “Build a monster,” “Decorate a cupcake,” or “Make a silly face.”
5. Indoor Camping Adventure
Who says you need to be outside to go camping? Set up a fun indoor campsite, complete with “campfire,” sleeping bags, and pretend s’mores.
How to Make It Fun:
- Set up a small tent or make one with blankets.
- Use a flashlight or battery-operated candles for a pretend campfire.
- Tell stories, sing songs, or play nature sounds in the background.
- Make s’mores in the microwave or just use crackers and marshmallow fluff for a no-mess version.
Create a Camping Adventure Pretend Play Pack with printable camp signs, activity sheets, and a DIY campfire craft.
6. Arts & Crafts Extravaganza
Rainy days are the perfect excuse to break out the glue, scissors, and all those craft supplies hiding in your closet.
Craft Ideas:
- Paper Plate Animals – Make lions, owls, or fish using paper plates and markers.
- DIY Greeting Cards – Let kids create cards for friends or family members.
- Collage Creations – Use old magazines to cut and paste fun pictures.
Pair this with printable coloring pages or craft templates for easy, mess-free fun!
7. Baking Together
Baking with kids is a win-win: they get to help mix and pour, and you get delicious treats. Sure, it might get a little messy, but that’s part of the fun!
Kid-Friendly Recipes:
- Chocolate Chip Cookies – Easy and classic.
- Mug Cakes – Quick and perfect for little bakers.
- Homemade Pizza – Let kids add their own toppings for a personalized pizza.
Print out Kid-Friendly Recipe Cards with step-by-step visuals to make it even easier.
8. Dance Party & Freeze Game
Need to shake off some of that rainy-day energy? Crank up the music and have a dance party!
How to Play Freeze Dance:
- Play music and let kids dance however they want.
- When the music stops, they have to freeze in place.
- Add silly rules, like “Freeze like an animal” or “Freeze with your hands in the air.”
Print out Dance Move Cards with fun prompts like “Wiggle like a worm” or “Jump like a frog.”
9. Indoor Science Experiments
Bring out your inner scientist with easy, mess-friendly experiments.
Fun Science Ideas:
- Baking Soda & Vinegar Volcano – Classic and exciting!
- Color-Changing Milk – Add drops of food coloring to milk and swirl with dish soap.
- Magic Paper Towel Art – Draw on a paper towel, fold it, and dip it in water to reveal hidden colors!
A Science Experiment Recording Sheet would let kids document their observations like real scientists.
10. Movie & Popcorn Pajama Party
When all else fails, it’s time for a cozy movie night.
Make It Special:
- Let kids “buy” tickets with printable Movie Night Tickets.
- Set up a concession stand with popcorn, fruit, and fun snacks.
- Have a themed movie night with matching snacks (e.g., “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” and spaghetti night!).
Coloring Pages are also a great way to keep your little ones busy on rainy days.
Check out some of our coloring pages here:
Rainy days don’t have to be boring or frustrating. With a little creativity, they can become some of the most memorable days spent together. Whether it’s building a fort, making slime, or dancing like a wild monkey, these activities will keep kids entertained and happy—all while giving you a little break from the dreaded “I’m bored” complaints.
Which activity are you excited to try first? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to grab your free printables to make these activities even more fun!
