Navigating rainy days could be hard for us grown-ups. Backed-up traffic, broken umbrellas, wet clothes — soggy days are a drag. But for kids and their boundless energy, they are particularly tough. After all, whoever coined the term “bouncing off the walls” didn’t do this while watching kids outdoors. When my kids were little, I broke up the afternoon by choosing them for regular walks or outside for backyard time. This helped curb indoor boredom. Well, that is obviously not an option during a downpour.
But do not panic. There are ways to keep kids busy and guarantee a steady drain on their power meter. It’s true: Fun, lively indoor activities are attainable. The key is having a well-planned, activity-based space — one which trumps the temptation of TV and video games. These spaces do not need to be grand in scale; even a corner will get the job done. Bear in mind, it’s all about imagination. Here are a few suggestions to get you started. Your kids will finish up.
Jute Interior Design
1. Let them burrow. Kids like to build tunnels, caves and forts. When sofa cushions are not sufficient, try out a kid-size tepee. You can go the store-bought route or get creative with items around the house: Broomsticks and sheets should do the trick. Kids love these romantic spaces for studying, playing make-believe or bleach.
David Howell Design
2. Hop on board. When my middle son was little, he was a train enthusiast. He would stand at a train table for hours. If you’ve got a child who shows an interest in building things, a train table is a great activity. Tracks could be constructed and deconstructed over and over again. Additionally, there are a lot of books and CDs that contain the sights and sounds of trains.
Liz Carroll Interiors
3. Set up a performance corner. This is a easy wall treatment which may be used for many types of performances. Teaching kids to be comfortable in front of an audience spurs socialization and confidence. Invite an afternoon drama, concert, dance celebration or puppet show.
Wind and Willow Home
4. Give in to chalkboard paint. Kids love to practice writing their names and doodling self-portraits. Designate a wall for chalkboard paint and let them loose. Tip: Be sure to clarify that this is the sole wall it is OK to draw.
The best way to create and use chalkboard paint
Kate Jackson Design
5. Get in the swing of things. Who said swing places are only for the playground? Look into ways to safely fix indoor swings to play area ceilings.
Cary Bernstein Architect
6. Become invisible. Hide-and-seek never gets older. My youngest son was particularly good at this game. One time that he stood behind a curtain perfectly still for thirty minutes. We couldn’t find him everywhere until I discovered him giggling.
Julie Ranee Photography
7. Set up a basketball hoop. Shooting hoops will liven up appetites before a hearty lunch. A hoop does not need to be regulation size; smaller versions that hang over doors work also. Basketball is also a excellent activity for enhancing hand-eye coordination and learning how to count.
Visbeen Architects
8. Create a cozy corner for board games and puzzles. A landing is an often-overlooked space in many houses. If you’ve got an oversize landing, consider turning it into a nook for reading or games.
Eisner Design LLC
9. Get clean. Sometimes kids actually enjoy picking up after themselves and organizing toys. In addition, it is a good way to expend more energy — a win-win for you!
Jordan Parnass Digital Architecture
10. Rest assured. Don’t forget to permit some downtime. Encourage independence with low-energy activities such as listening to music or, my preferred, rest time.
More: Have a look at these fantasy kids’ spaces