101 Things for Kids to Do on a Rainy Day

A special handbook for youth and the adults who work with them.

In 101 Things for Kids to Do Outside Dawn Isaac presented a diverse collection of activities designed to inspire kids to get out of the house and play. Rainy days are a different matter. Knowing that it can be particularly challenging to pull kids off the couch, Isaac created 101 activities for indoor fun, all thoroughly tested and approved by children.

These activities are sure to entertain. There are one-on-one games and party games, quiet activities and raucous treasure hunts, projects for one person or a group, homemade toys and food treats, science experiments, play acting and make believe, indoor gardening and much more.

The 101 things are described in light-hearted text with clear instructions, amusing illustrations and photographs of kids having fun. All of the activities use items found around the home. Younger children may need direction. The activities range from 10 minutes to a full day.

Here are some examples:

• Make ice cream in a plastic bag
• Take and lift fingerprints
• Girls can try new hairstyles, set up a spa, hold a junk fashion show
• Mix bath paints
• Build a shoebox house
• Have an indoor snowball fight (with crumpled paper)
• Make an I Spy jar
• Catapult marshmallows
• Make a heart garland
• Compete in hands-free ping pong.

It can be difficult to get children away from the screen because the alternative is less appealing. 101 Things for Kids to Do on a Rainy Day can change that. It is a great way to banish day-long couch sessions and rediscover the joy of play.

Dawn Isaac is the author of 101 Things for Kids to Do Outside. Her popular blog is www.littlegreenfingers.com.