Despite the fact that it’s no longer April, we’re getting a lot of rain. And while I actually don’t mind it (since normally I really do like rain) it’s cold on top of rainy. Meaning, we are staying indoors. A lot. And going stir crazy. A lot.

photo credit

So, what’s a mama to do with all this indoor time?

1. Have regular play dates

We try to meet up with other kids twice a week. This week? We’ve got a whopping 4 play dates scheduled. And while it totally messes up Hannah’s morning nap routine, it’s a lifesaver for Julia and me.

2. Bring out old toys

Have toys that are tucked away that your kids haven’t touched in a few weeks (or new toys they’ve never seen)? Rainy days, or rainy weeks in our case, are a great time to reintroduce old toys.

3. Clear out the garage

If you have space in your garage, pull out the car and let your kids use the area as an outdoor/indoor play area. Let them ride around on bikes, write with sidewalk chalk, have a picnic or other fun outdoor games.

4. Have movie night during the day

We don’t allow our girls to watch much television. Actually, let me rephrase that – we go weeks without turning on the television and then might watch it for two days in a row. But, typically speaking, watching television for the girls is a privilege (and let’s be honest, it’s a nice break for me too). So, when we’ve exhausted all our options, I like to have Movie Night during the day. Bring out the pillows and blankets, pop some popcorn, get some candy and toss in Curious George. Sometimes I might even fall asleep.