20 ways to get kids active outside on rainy days

Call me crazy, but when it’s raining outside, my first instinct is to find a nice warm spot indoors and, well, stay dry.

But I happen to live with three small people who believe quite the opposite is true. They like to remind me every time it rains that there’s no need to stay warm and dry indoors. Quite the contrary, in fact. The way my three kids see it, the wetter, the better.

And so, I’ve turned to them, seasoned experts in the art of playing in the rain, for suggestions on how to have fun and stay active outside on rainy days:

1. Puddles

It’s all about the puddles. Jump in puddles, jump over puddles, jump around puddles. Kids might even like watching patterns in the water while their friends jump in puddles.

2. Watch and follow water rivers as they run down the street

3. Splash each other

4. Make paper boats

Then sail them in a really big puddle!

5. Catch raindrops with your umbrella

6. Catch raindrops on your tongue

Then try catching them on your hands. Or fingertips. Or toes. Or nose. (Kids won’t realize, but they’ll be developing their balance, overall body coordination, and sensory development.)

7. Play a favourite sport in the rain

Keep in mind the rain will make things slippery. If kids are hesitant to try, here’s an excellent short film you can show them for a little inspiration.

8. Have a shower

If it’s raining hard enough and you have a safe, biodegradable soap, put on a swimsuit and wash your hair.

9. Water plants

Carry the houseplants outside and let them get a breath of fresh air and a big delicious drink of rainwater.

10. Go for a hike

Yes, this one means there’s definite adult involvement, but if you dress for the weather everything will be fine. I promise.

11. Make mud pies

12. Play in the sandbox

It’ll be a whole new adventure with the rain coming down!

13. Go to the playground

Of course, be careful around equipment that might be dangerous if slippery, but enjoy the novelty of being the only family in the park.

14. Look for worms

My kids love to rescue them from the middle of the sidewalk while we’re out for a rainy walk.

15. Dance

Put your favourite song in your pocket (to protect it from the rain, of course), listen to the beat of the raindrops, and dance your heart out. If Gene Kelly can do it, so can you.

16. Try our animal activity

Jump like a frog, fly like a robin, waddle like a duck!

17. Take a family walk around the neighbourhood

If your kids are anything like mine, they probably love using umbrellas. This is the perfect opportunity for them to pop them open and have fun.

18. Make artwork

If you’re feeling really adventurous, bring out the art supplies and see what happens when the rain inspires the creative process.

19. Blow bubbles

There’s something really cool about watching them pop (or not) while the rain falls.

20. Have fun drying off after play!

Rain doesn’t mean everyone is stuck indoors. Some of the most fun my kids have is when they’re stomping through puddles, playing in the mud, and getting soaking wet on the rainiest of days. Which brings me to our family’s final tip: Dry off with the big pile of towels that your oh-so-well-prepared parents remembered to leave waiting for you at the front door.