by Holly Burns
West Des Moines Community Schools
Parents of Preschoolers Information Network

Along with sunny days for planting flowers or playing at the park, spring also brings its share of rainy days. Here are some ideas to help you be ready to enjoy your inside days with your little ones.

I Love a Rainy Day!!!
Art Activities:

• Finger paint on a highchair tray.  Use pudding or real finger paint.  Make a print of the final design by placing paper over tray and rubbing. Make playdough together.  Use a variety of kitchen utensils for tools.
• Get out a large piece of paper (from a bolt).  Cover your kitchen table and tape it down. Invite everyone to make a tablecloth.  Use crayons or washable markers.
• Keep a collage box for scraps, toilet paper tubes, material, bright paper, yarn etc.  Make a structure or collage using Elmers glue on a sturdy base, such as cardboard.
  

Other ideas:

• Bake something together. Muffins, cookies, breads or puddings are fun.
• Make a very bubbly bath. Add 1 (or 2) child(ren) and kitchen utensils such as measuring cups, ladles, etc.
• Turn on music, make up dances.
• Invite over friends…or better yet, go to a friend’s house!
• Go for a walk with umbrellas or without, if it is warm and no flashes of lightning are in the sky.
• Have a dress-up box with costumes, props and accessories. This is really fun with a friend. Be sure and have a full-length mirror for admiring.
• Go to places that have indoor activities such as the Botanical Center, Science Center, indoor play areas, YMCA etc.
• Go for an after the rain walk.  Experience the smells, sights and sounds after the rain is done. Be sure and find those puddles!
  

by Holly Burns
West Des Moines Community Schools
Parents of Preschoolers Information Network

Used with permission