Fun Activities to Do with Kids at Home on Rainy Days
When the weather turns gloomy and outdoor plans get canceled, it can be challenging to keep kids entertained and energized indoors. But don’t worry—there are plenty of fun activities to do with kids at home that are both engaging and enriching. Whether you’re facing a rainy weekend, a snow day, or simply staying in, the right mix of indoor activities for kids can turn any dreary day into one filled with laughter and learning.
From simple rainy day activities for kids like scavenger hunts and craft stations to more physical options like indoor obstacle courses or living room dance parties, this guide has something for every age and energy level. If you’re looking for activities to do with kids at home that also support development and bonding, you’re in the right place.
In this post, we’ll explore creative and easy-to-set-up kids activities indoor that will keep your little ones occupied and smiling. Whether you need quiet time activities, educational fun, or physical activities for kids, we’ve got you covered. So if you’re searching for fun things to do with kids that don’t require a lot of prep or a trip to the store, keep reading!
Let’s turn those rainy days into memorable moments with exciting kid activities indoor the whole family will love.
Fun Activities to Do with Kids at Home (Rainy Day Approved!)
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DIY Craft Projects
Looking for fun activities to do with kids at home that are also creative? DIY crafts are the perfect solution. Set up a mini art station with basic supplies like colored paper, glue sticks, markers, scissors, googly eyes, and stickers. Kids can create paper plate animals, greeting cards, handmade jewelry, or even seasonal decorations. Crafting helps develop fine motor skills, boosts creativity, and gives kids a sense of accomplishment. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a weekend project, this is one of the best indoor activities for kids to keep them happily engaged.
Buy On Amazon:
- Craft Supply Kits for Kids – Complete sets with scissors, glue, googly eyes, foam shapes, pipe cleaners, etc.
- Washable Markers & Crayons – Non-toxic, mess-free options for safe indoor fun.
- Kids’ Art Easel or Craft Table – Ideal for turning any corner into a creative space.
Bonus tip: Turn your crafts into gifts for family members or decorations for their room—it adds meaning to their creations and encourages pride in their work.
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Indoor Obstacle Course
Need a way to burn off that extra energy? An indoor obstacle course is one of the most exciting and active physical activities for kids. Use items you already have at home: couch cushions to jump over, chairs to crawl under, tape on the floor to balance across, and laundry baskets to toss toys into. Customize the course based on your child’s age and ability, and time them for added fun. Not only does this activity help improve coordination and motor skills, but it’s also a great way to keep your child moving, especially on a rainy day indoors.
Buy On Amazon:
- Foam Play Mats – Soft and safe for active play indoors.
- Balance Stepping Stones or Balance Beams – Great for motor skill development.
- Pop-Up Play Tunnels – Easy to set up and store for obstacle fun.
Baking Together
Few things are more rewarding than baking with your kids. Whether you’re making chocolate chip cookies, mini cupcakes, or a simple homemade pizza, this activity combines fun, learning, and bonding. Kids practice math by measuring ingredients, improve reading with recipe instructions, and gain confidence through hands-on experience. Plus, baking is one of those fun things to do with kids that comes with a delicious reward! Let them help with decorating and, of course, taste-testing.
Buy On Amazon:
- Kid-Safe Cooking Utensil Sets – Whisks, spatulas, and measuring tools designed for little hands.
- Colorful Aprons for Kids – Fun and functional kitchen wear.
- Silicone Baking Molds – Kid-friendly shapes for muffins, cupcakes, or treats.
Easy Science Experiments
Turn your kitchen into a mini science lab with simple and safe experiments. Try making a volcano erupt with baking soda and vinegar, watch colors swirl with milk and food coloring, or create stretchy slime using glue and borax. These indoor activities for kids make science accessible and exciting. You’ll introduce basic STEM concepts in a hands-on way that encourages curiosity and critical thinking. These activities are especially great rainy day activities for kids who love to explore how things work.
Buy On Amazon:
- Kids’ Science Experiment Kits – Volcanoes, slime, crystals, and more.
- STEM Learning Kits – Age-appropriate educational kits that support fun and learning.
- Slime-Making Supplies – Pre-made kits or bundles of ingredients.
Reading Nook Time
Create a special reading nook using blankets, cushions, and soft lighting where kids can snuggle up with their favorite books. Choose a mix of stories that align with their interests, and make reading time a shared experience by reading aloud or taking turns. This calming activity supports literacy development, enhances imagination, and is perfect for winding down. As one of the most beneficial activities to do with kids at home, regular reading sessions can become a cherished part of your family’s routine.
Buy On Amazon:
- Kids’ Bookshelves or Reading Tents – Create a cozy nook.
- Top-Rated Children’s Book Sets – Bundle of classics or themed collections.
- Clip-On Reading Lights – Great for storytime in bed or reading tents.
Puzzle Play
Puzzles are more than just a pastime—they’re brain boosters! From chunky wooden puzzles for toddlers to 3D challenges for older kids, puzzles help develop problem-solving skills, patience, and attention to detail. Gather a few age-appropriate puzzles and make it a group activity to encourage teamwork. For a DIY twist, create your own puzzle by cutting up a family photo or your child’s artwork. It’s one of those fun activities to do with kids at home that stimulates their minds while keeping them occupied.
Buy On Amazon:
- Floor Puzzles for Toddlers and Kids – Large, colorful pieces.
- 3D Puzzles or Brain Teasers – For older kids who enjoy a challenge.
- Puzzle Storage Mats – Roll-up mats for keeping pieces together.
Family Game Night
Nothing brings the family together like a good old-fashioned game night. Pull out classic board games like Candy Land, Uno, or Monopoly, or introduce something new and exciting. Even simple card games or charades can bring tons of laughs. Rotate the games each week to keep things interesting. Not only does this strengthen family bonds, but it also teaches kids about taking turns, following rules, and good sportsmanship. Kid activities indoor don’t get much better than this!
Buy On Amazon:
- Classic Board Games (like Uno, Guess Who, or Candy Land)
- Cooperative Games for Kids – Focus on teamwork instead of competition.
- Card Games & Family-Friendly Trivia Sets
Indoor Camping Adventure
Who says camping has to be outdoors? Set up a tent or build a blanket fort in your living room. Bring in sleeping bags, flashlights, and tell stories under your “stars.” Add snacks like microwave s’mores or hot cocoa to complete the vibe. This cozy and imaginative setup is one of the best fun things to do with kids on a rainy day or chilly evening. You can even play nature sounds in the background for an immersive experience.
Buy On Amazon:
- Kids’ Indoor Play Tent or Teepee – Easy to assemble and cozy.
- Battery-Operated Lanterns or Flashlights – Safe for storytelling.
- Microwave S’mores Makers – Fun kitchen gadgets for indoor treats.
Dance Party
Get the energy flowing with a living room dance party! Put on a kid-friendly playlist, dim the lights, and let everyone show off their best moves. Dancing is one of the most enjoyable physical activities for kids, helping them improve coordination, rhythm, and flexibility—all while having a blast. You can add challenges like freeze dance or a mini dance-off for extra fun. It’s a fantastic way to boost moods and burn off energy, especially when outdoor play isn’t an option.
Buy On Amazon:
- Bluetooth Kids’ Karaoke Microphone – Sing and dance sessions.
- Portable Bluetooth Speakers – Compact and kid-safe.
- Dance & Freeze Game Mats or Interactive Dance Pads
Create an Art Gallery
Celebrate your child’s creativity by turning your home into an art gallery. Set aside a wall, hallway, or corkboard to display their masterpieces. Encourage them to use different mediums—paint, crayons, clay, or even digital art. Once a week, host a mini “gallery opening” where they present their work. This indoor activity for kids boosts confidence and gives their creations the spotlight they deserve. It also adds a splash of color and personality to your living space!
Buy On Amazon:
- Display Frames or Art Hanging Cables – Showcase kids’ artwork.
- Paint Sets with Brushes – Washable options for easy cleanup.
- Kids’ Modeling Clay Kits
Indoor Scavenger Hunt
Ready for a little indoor adventure? Create a list of 10–20 common household items—like a red sock, a spoon, a stuffed animal, or a book with a blue cover—and hide them around the house. This interactive indoor activity for kids boosts observation skills, attention to detail, and critical thinking. You can make it more exciting by adding riddles or clues to each item. For extra fun, time your kids or turn it into a team competition. It’s one of those fun things to do with kids that never gets old!
Buy On Amazon:
- Printable Scavenger Hunt Card Sets – Themed and reusable.
- Walkie-Talkies for Kids – Adds adventure to any hunt.
- Magnifying Glass or Explorer Kits – Encourages observation.
Movie Marathon
When the weather outside is gloomy, turn your living room into a cozy movie theater. Pick a theme—Disney classics, superheroes, or animal adventures—and plan a lineup of kid-friendly films. Add popcorn, snacks, blankets, and even trivia questions between movies. This laid-back option is one of the easiest rainy day activities for kids that brings the whole family together for screen-time fun and relaxation.
Buy On Amazon:
- Kids’ Movie Night Snack Sets – Popcorn tubs, candy holders, etc.
- Portable Projector for Indoor Use – Creates a home theater experience.
- Streaming Sticks (Fire TV, Roku) – Easy access to kid-friendly movies.
Kids Questions Game for Indoor Activities:
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Indoor Gardening
Don’t have a backyard? No problem! Try indoor gardening by planting herbs like basil or mint, or easy vegetables like lettuce or cherry tomatoes in pots. Kids can decorate the planters, label them, and be responsible for watering and watching them grow. This fun activity to do with kids at home teaches patience, responsibility, and introduces them to the basics of biology and sustainability—all from the comfort of your kitchen windowsill.
Buy On Amazon:
- Kids’ Gardening Kits – Tools, soil, and seed starters.
- Indoor Grow Light Sets – Helps plants thrive indoors.
- Paint-Your-Own Flower Pots
Simple Cooking Lessons
Beyond baking sweets, take things up a notch by teaching your kids simple cooking tasks. Let them help with washing produce, cracking eggs, mixing batter, or assembling sandwiches. With your guidance, they’ll build confidence and learn essential life skills. Cooking is a great indoor activity for kids that combines math, science, and creativity—all in one delicious experience.
Buy On Amazon:
- Kids’ Cookbooks – Step-by-step visuals for beginners.
- Kid-Friendly Kitchen Knife Sets – Safe yet functional tools.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons with Color Coding
Educational Apps and Games
Turn screen time into learning time with high-quality educational apps and games. Look for kid-friendly platforms that cover subjects like math, reading, science, and problem-solving. These kids activities indoor make learning fun and interactive, especially on days when outdoor play isn’t an option. Set time limits to keep balance and encourage discussion afterward to reinforce new concepts.
Buy On Amazon:
- Amazon Fire Tablet for Kids – Parental controls + access to educational apps.
- Headphones for Kids – Volume-limited for safe listening.
- App Store Gift Cards – Great for purchasing educational apps.
Crafting with Recyclables
Grab your recycling bin and let your child’s imagination soar! Transform cardboard boxes into dollhouses, egg cartons into caterpillars, or plastic bottles into rocket ships. Crafting with recyclables not only encourages creativity but also teaches eco-awareness and sustainability. It’s one of those fun activities to do with kids at home that’s budget-friendly and environmentally mindful.
Buy On Amazon:
- Low-Temp Hot Glue Gun for Kids – Safe and ideal for building projects.
- Craft Idea Books – Guides for turning recyclables into fun creations.
- Storage Bins for Craft Supplies
Bonus tip: Turn your crafts into gifts for family members or decorations for their room—it adds meaning to their creations and encourages pride in their work.
Storytelling Sessions
Encourage your child to create their own stories—written, drawn, or told aloud. Give them a notebook to write and illustrate a short tale or use digital storytelling apps. Once finished, have a special time where they read or perform their story to the family. This activity strengthens communication skills and builds confidence, making it a great rainy day activity for kids who enjoy writing or drama.
Buy On Amazon:
- Story Dice or Creative Prompt Cards – Boost imagination.
- Digital Voice Recorders for Kids – Let them record their stories.
- Blank Hardcover Storybooks – Kids can write and illustrate their own tales.
Yoga & Mindfulness
Help your child find calm with guided yoga and mindfulness sessions. Use kid-friendly videos or apps that teach simple breathing exercises, gentle stretches, and positive affirmations. These indoor activities for kids promote emotional regulation, body awareness, and relaxation—especially helpful during stressful or hyperactive days. It’s an ideal way to bring a little peace into your routine.
Buy On Amazon:
- Kids’ Yoga Mats – Fun prints and appropriate sizes.
- Yoga Cards or Books for Children – Simple poses and breathing exercises.
- Mindfulness Journals for Kids
Nature Walk (or Nature Window Watch)
On clear days, head outside for a nature walk in your backyard or nearby park. Encourage kids to spot different plants, bugs, or birds, and collect natural treasures like leaves or stones. On rainy days, do a nature watch from the window—observe how the rain falls, identify cloud shapes, or look out for birds and squirrels. These simple activities to do with kids spark curiosity and help them connect with the world around them.
Buy On Amazon:
- Bird Watching Kits – Binoculars, guidebooks, and logs.
- Nature Journals or Observation Diaries
- Rain Window Art Kits – Stickers or markers for rainy day creativity.
Virtual Field Trips
Bring the world into your living room with virtual field trips to museums, zoos, aquariums, and historic sites. Many institutions offer free online tours, videos, and educational resources. It’s one of the most enriching rainy day activities for kids that combines screen time with exploration and learning. Whether they’re exploring ancient pyramids or watching penguins waddle at a zoo, virtual trips can ignite a lifelong love for discovery.
Buy On Amazon:
- VR Headset for Kids (with smartphone compatibility) – Great for immersive experiences.
- World Atlas or Interactive Globe – Encourages global exploration.
- STEM Subscriptions or Books Featuring Real-World Destinations
Final Thoughts,
Rainy days no longer have to feel like a challenge—instead, they can become opportunities for creativity, connection, and fun. With the right mix of activities to do with kids at home, you can transform any ordinary day into an extraordinary one. Whether it’s building a living room fort, hosting a family talent show, or diving into DIY crafts, these fun activities to do with kids at home are simple, engaging, and perfect for keeping boredom at bay.
The best part? You don’t need fancy supplies or endless screen time. These rainy day activities for kids are designed to be low-prep, high-impact, and suitable for all ages. So next time the forecast says rain, pull out this list and let the indoor adventures begin.
From kid activities indoor to physical activities for kids that help burn off energy, the options are endless. Don’t forget to save this post for the next time you’re stuck inside—and if you found it helpful, be sure to share it with other parents, caregivers, or teachers looking for fun things to do with kids indoors.
Rain or shine, your home can always be a hub of laughter, learning, and lasting memories.
