Beat the Heat or Escape the Rain: Cool Indoor Activities
August 7, 2019 | by tyller moline
Scenario Number 1: You roll out of bed, look out your window, and once again see it is raining outside (shades of earlier this summer). You made plans to go to the pool today, but it looks like that isn’t going to happen. You have no idea what you are going to do now. The kids were really looking forward to swimming.
Scenario Number 2: You check the weather report for the day and see it is supposed to be 100 degrees again. You spent the last few days outside in the extremely hot weather, you are over it, and would like to spend a cool day indoors.
Fortunately, we've got 7 fun adventures you and your kiddos can embark on today.
1.) Have a Game Day
You can put whatever twist on this classic indoor activity you like: play board games, video games, card games, hide-and-seek (traditional, Nerf-Gun…), or whatever else comes to mind.
2.) Build a Fort
I know your first thought is more than likely the huge mess it will turn into, but I think the pros outweigh the cons when it comes to this activity. Not only is building a fort extremely fun, Lisa Healy explains there are numerous benefits it provides:
- Promotes a vivid imagination and creative play
- Encourages problem-solving skills
- Builds confidence
- Creates a positive environment for teamwork
- Provides an incentive to read
3.) Bake
This is another great indoor activity that provides a wonderful way to bond with your kids. You can pull out the baking recipes that have been in your family for generations, or you can utilize that ever so handy Pinterest. Sugar cookies and cupcakes are great because your kids can use cookies cutters, bright colored frosting, and sprinkles to decorate. Finally, baking builds math, science, reading, and social skills (Lively).
4.) Scrapbook
In today’s digital world, it seems the art of doing things off-screen is becoming less and less common. Hence why you may decide to choose this hands-on activity the next time it rains, or an extreme heat wave comes our way. Additionally, scrapbooking is a fun way to record memories, while making new ones.
5.) Scavenger Hunt
I don’t know about you, but I loved mysteries growing up. I think most kids love playing detective because it gives them a major sense of accomplishment when they find clues. Plus, it builds problem-solving skills. Therefore, an indoor scavenger hunt is a great activity to partake in. The link below will take you to a site that provides free printable scavenger hunt clues and instructions.
https://www.sunnydayfamily.com/2018/02/indoor-scavenger-hunt.html
6.) Watch a Movie/Read
Of course, sometimes the best indoor activity is either watching a movie or reading a book. You can keep things simple or get creative. You can make movie-themed snacks, print off admission tickets, or even build cardboard cars to replicate being at the drive-in (Krissy). The link below will provide you instructions on how to do this.
https://www.notjustahousewife.net/cardboard-cars-for-a-homemade-drive-in-theater/
7.) Makeover/Dress-up
Traditionally speaking, makeovers are often thought to be more relevant for the girls, but boys can certainly join in the fun. Because who doesn’t love a day filled with imaginary play? Furthermore, you could partake in crafts that relate to the costumes your kids have. For example, if your kid has a Captain America costume without a shield, then, maybe make one out of cardboard.
