It's raining outside and it looks like it has set in for the day. The kids are starting to climb the walls and its only 9am. What do you do?. No you do not hide under your bed hoping that the kids don't trash the house. You give the kids an activity to do, below are a few suggestions.

CAMP IN NOT OUT Drape some bed sheets or blankets over your dining table to make a tent. Get your kids to pick a few essentials to take into the tent with them. Pack some snacks and drinks in a lunchbox and your kids can pretend they are out in the bush camping.

BAKING Most kids love to cook and cakes and cookies are always a hit, but if you want to try something a bit different try these Rice Krispie Bars. Ingredients; 6 cups Rice Krispies, 1 bag of white marshmallows, 3 tablespoons butter or margarine and Non-stick cooking spray. Melt the margarine in a non-stick pan and add the entire bag of marshmallows. Stir over medium heat until the marshmallows have completely melted. Add Rice Krispies and mix together well. Pour mixture into a 9" x 13" pan that has been greased or sprayed with no-stick cooking spray. Use a baggie that has been sprayed with no-stick spray to spread and flatten mixture. Cut into squares when cool.

SCULPTING Who can resist playing with dough?. Even I can't resist squishing it through my fingers. Here is a recipe for Play Dough that you don't have to cook. Ingredients;1 cup salt ,1 cup flour, 1 tablespoon vegetable Oil and food coloring. Mix all ingredients together. Add a little water if the mixture is to dry.
If your kids are a little older you may want to make some Salt Clay to Bake with them. Stir together: 2 cups plain flour, 1 cup salt, 1 to 1 1/2 cups cold water and 2 tablespoons cooking oil. Knead well until it forms a soft ball.
Use cookie cutters or mold the clay by hand. Your children can create refrigerator magnets, jewelry, ornaments, key chains, necklaces, and much more.
Line a baking tray with aluminum foil, place the clay creations on the tray and bake in a 300 degree F. oven for about one hour or until they are hard.
You can use food coloring to color dough before you bake it, or paint it afterwards. A finishing coat of clear acrylic or even PVA glue will make your salt clay products last longer.

CINEMA AT HOME - There is nothing better on a miserable day than curling up with some cozy pillows, a warm blanket and a big bowl of popcorn and watching a movie. Turn off the lights, shut the blinds and pretend you are at the movies.

WRITE LETTERS - Make special stationery and write letters to favorite relatives and friends or teachers.
You won't hear an "I'm bored!" with these fun activities to keep your kids occupied on those gloomy rainy days.

Learn more about this author, Rachel Suesskow.
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