Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. In fact, a wet day can be the perfect excuse for some of the best outdoor adventures around. Pop on the wellies and waterproofs, and get ready for our pick of 10 brilliant things to do outside in the rain with the kids.
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Don’t get stuck indoors just because the skies have opened. There are plenty of fun things to do outside in the rain to keep kids of all ages happily occupied. And once everyone’s had their fill of getting wet and splashing about, head indoors for warm baths and a hot drink to finish the day off.
#1. Go on a Nature Hunt
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Turn a walk into an adventure by setting a challenge – how many snails can you spot in 10 minutes? Can you count the earthworms you come across, or find an interesting stone or leaf? Try this fun nature scavenger hunt to download and take with you.
Once you’re back inside, use the leaves and twigs you’ve collected to make a nature collage, or try one of these leaf craft ideas.
#2. Splash in Puddles
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Puddle jumping is great fun for children of all ages, but it’s especially good for preschoolers wanting to let off some steam. Turn it into a counting game by seeing how many puddles you can find and jump in together.
Tip: Make sure waterproof trousers or dungarees go over the tops of wellies, not tucked in, to help keep little feet dry.
#3. Head to a Nearby Beach
If you’re lucky enough to live near the coast, a rainy day at the beach can be just as much fun as a sunny one. Build stone castles by stacking flat stones and see who can build the tallest tower. Or get creative and make a sea monster in the sand – draw a huge outline of a face and body, then decorate it with shells for eyes, stones for buttons and seaweed for hair.
#4. Go Walking in the Woods
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The trees make brilliant natural umbrellas. Keep an eye out for birds or squirrels overhead, or look under the trees for animal burrows and mushrooms (it’s best to admire mushrooms rather than pick them, unless you really know your fungi). See who can find the most pine cones along the way.
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#5. Measure a Tree
Just how big is that tree in your local park or woods? Here’s how to measure a tree – it’s easier than you’d think, and you won’t need a ladder. If you spot a fallen tree or an old stump, have a guess at its age, then count the rings to see how close you got.
#6. Ball Games
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Grab a ball and head to the garden or the local park for a game of “Soggy Soccer” or “Drizzly Donkey”. Expect a bit of slipping and sliding in the mud along the way – it’s all part of the fun for kids.
#7. Sing Songs about the Rain
Get the whole family singing! See how many rain-themed songs you can think of between you, then take turns belting them out as you splash through the puddles – think “Singin’ in the Rain” or “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head”.
#8. Arrow Trails
Collect as many sticks as you can find, then take turns laying an arrow trail on the ground for everyone else to follow. Add in a few loops and twists to make the trail more of a challenge.
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#9. Make a Tree House
Build a ground-level “tree house” in the woods. Find a big tree with a strong, low branch, then gather broken branches and ferns from the forest floor. Lean them in layers across the branch to create a mini den or shelter underneath.
#10. Make Mud Pies
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Find a suitable spot in the garden where the kids can dig away, and let them loose with buckets and spades to whip up some delicious mud pies.
Tip: Have plenty of hot water ready for a warm bubble bath afterwards!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What can kids do outside when it’s raining?
There’s plenty to keep kids entertained in the rain, from splashing in puddles and making mud pies to nature hunts, woodland walks and simple games like ball games or arrow trails. Rainy days are a great excuse to get outdoors and get a little messy.
What should kids wear to play outside in the rain?
Good waterproofs and wellies make all the difference. Waterproof trousers or dungarees worn over the top of wellies (rather than tucked in) help keep little legs and feet dry for longer, so kids can enjoy the fun without getting too cold or wet underneath.
How long should kids play outside in the rain?
This really depends on the weather, the temperature and how your child is coping with the cold and damp. Keep an eye on how they’re doing, bring them in for a warm-up if they start shivering, and always have a warm bath or hot drink ready for when you get back inside.
Is playing in the rain good for kids?
Many parents find that outdoor play in the rain is a brilliant way to burn off energy, spark imagination and get kids interested in nature. As with any outdoor activity, use your own judgement about the weather conditions and dress children appropriately.
More Rainy Day Ideas You’ll Love
- 10 Galoshingly Good Outdoor Rainy Day Activities for Kids
- Nature Scavenger Hunt for Kids
- Don’t Let the Rain Stop the Fun with These Kids’ Outdoor Rainy Day Games
- Inspiring Rainy Day Ideas for the Summer Holidays
- 25 of the Most Fun Things to Do with Kids on Rainy Days
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