Waterproofs and a pair of wellies are all you need to accept the tempting invitation of a rainy afternoon, especially if your children are still in the stomp-in-a-puddle phase of childhood when a splash of muddy water elicits squeals of excitement. The great outdoors is a magical place to be in a downpour, with new streams to explore, or a fine misty drizzle, with rain drop beads clinging to the leaves.

Sloping driveways and dusty holes which have been dry for days fill with movement and provide the perfect miniature rivers and lakes, ideal for damming and diverting. Sticks become diggers and drills. Stones make roads in and out of construction sites, and leaves become boats sailing across the ocean. With a bucket and spade there is no end of delicious mud feasts to be prepared and cooked.

Worms come up to the surface. Watch them or collect them in a bucket to make a wormery. Turn over stones to watch the scurrying insects, woodlice and spiders. Set up a jar to measure the rainfall. Dig mini canal systems in a patch of ground or set up water courses with old bits of pipe, pots and hose. The ground becomes soft for digging and planting. It is the ideal time for putting in spring bulbs. Miniature gardens of moss and tiny flowers thrive on a damp day.

Take a walk in the woods. The sounds are muffled and the atmosphere enclosed and exciting. Follow secret paths through the rainforest and explore the furthest reaches of the Amazon. Find shelter beneath a broad-leafed tree and set up camp with snacks. Fallen branches make great chairs.

Wander down to the river for a spot of fishing. If the real thing's not possible then find long sticks and tie string to the end. Play Pooh Sticks' under a bridge and watch the ripples from each and every raindrop. Look out for water rats and frogs which are bolder on rainy days with fewer people around.

If you get a break in the weather, look out for the rainbow. You never know, if you had stayed indoors you may never have seen it glancing over the top of the hill. And finally, when you head back inside have a competition to see who can pour the most water out of each boot.

Not only will your children have a fantastic time, but they will return home with a huge appetite ready for whatever is served up, and after a hot bath and a cup of hot chocolate they will lie in bed and listen to the rain as they fall into a deep and contented sleep.

Learn more about this author, Heidi Houlihan.
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