The Rainy Day.Basically, you have two options:
1. Take the kids to one of those expensive, over-crowded, disgusting, indoor kiddie funzones, or
2. Avoid the crowds and create some memories.
Don't get me wrong, I'm all about getting out there and having some fun. But some of those places are just too predictable. And honestly, they're not worth even a fraction what you pay, plus they're way overcrowded on a rainy day. So here's an idea--build yourself a little rainy day stay-at-home backup plan. Mine goes a little something like this:
Have you met my good friend, Play-Doh?I especially love the crazy character sets...see who can build the funniest creature.
These seed kits are my absolute favorite new activity. I love it because it's an ongoing project and a learning activity all in one.
Just add water to the dirt pellets, watch them puff up into real dirt, plant the seeds and voila!
Whip up some tasty treats in the kitchen. These little cookies are delicious, and chubby little fingers are especially perfect for squishing in the peanut butter cups.
{photo and recipe from here}
If you must give in and resort to a little TV time, make sure it's something everyone can enjoy. I'm particularly smitten with the new Olivia cartoon. It's just too cute.
A couple more ideas that are Mr. H-approved:
- Paper airplane flying contest. Check out this site for some airplane templates if you need help.
- Dress-ups. Get out a bunch of mommy & daddy's clothes and let them be the grownup for a change.
- Worksheets. Color, write, draw, or even waterpaint on them. Find some great free ones here.
P.S. All of these activities are especially fun when shared with a friend or two, so invite over a friend and her kids. Before you know it, the kids will be saying, "Chuck E. Who?"
4 comments:
Oh, I don't have children but I think may stock up similar items (finger paints perhaps!)for the next rainy day I am stuck inside:)
Totally agree with you on the kidzone type of activities. This is a great list of things to do. I'm a huge fan of fingerpaints and any kid based art activity myself. And, I think I'm going to have to try those cookies next rainy day!
Oh man, this takes me back to my babysitting days! I read a lot of 'babysitters club' books before i even started sitting, and they inspired me to have one of those toy kits that i carried with me when I went to look after my neighbour's kids. these are classic items and I can't wait to have my own little ones so I can play with them again!
or maybe i'll just come play with you and hudson. i do a mean finger painting ;)
Wonderful post! I don't have kids, but I have nephews so am always looking for things to get them for Christmas/Birthdays & other holidays like Easter. I think I might get them each the Veggie Tales gardening kit for their Easter baskets!
Post a Comment