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Family fun

12th Jul 2024

Ten ways to keep kids entertained indoors this summer as rain hampers outdoor plans

Sophie Collins

Summer often brings the promise of outdoor fun, but sometimes the weather doesn’t cooperate – particularly in Ireland.

When rain keeps the kids inside, we need creative ways to keep them entertained. 

So, here are some fun indoor activities to make those bad weather days enjoyable:

Indoor Treasure Hunt

Create a treasure hunt with clues hidden around the house.

Kids will love the adventure of searching for small toys or treats, and it can keep them occupied for hours.

DIY Arts and Crafts

Set up a craft station with supplies like coloured paper, markers, glue, and stickers.

Encourage your kids to make cards, collages, or even their own comic books.

Websites and books are full of craft ideas that can be tailored to different ages and skill levels.

Baking and Cooking

Involve your kids in the kitchen with simple recipes. Baking cookies, making homemade pizzas, or creating fun snacks can be both educational and delicious.

Plus, they’ll love eating their own creations.

Indoor Camping

Turn your living room into a campsite.

Set up a tent or build a fort with blankets and pillows.

Have a picnic, tell stories, and even use a flashlight for some indoor stargazing.

Movie Marathon

Pick a theme, like Disney classics or superhero films, and have a movie marathon.

Make popcorn, gather blankets and pillows, and create a cozy movie-watching environment.

Science Experiments

Engage kids’ curiosity with simple at-home science experiments.

Classic activities like making a volcano with baking soda and vinegar or growing crystals can be both fun and educational.

Board Games and Puzzles

Dust off those board games and puzzles.

They’re a great way to spend quality time together and can help with cognitive development and teamwork.

Indoor Exercise

Keep kids active with indoor exercise routines.

YouTube offers plenty of kid-friendly workout videos, from dance classes to yoga.

You can also create an indoor obstacle course using household items.

Reading and Storytelling

Encourage a love of reading by having a family reading hour.

Let kids pick their favourite books, or read a longer story together over several days.

You can also make up your own stories, taking turns to add to the plot.

Virtual Field Trips

Lots of museums, zoos, and aquariums offer virtual tours and live streams.

Take a virtual trip to a national park, explore the exhibits at a museum, or watch animals at the zoo, all from the comfort of your home.

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