On rainy or cold days, when you can't take the kids outside, you need to find other ways to help them get exercise and use up their energy. Here are a few suggestions to keep them active and you from getting cabin fever.

Kids love music, and you can use it in a variety of ways to get them active. Musical chairs, or a variation of the game using colored shapes of paper taped to the floor is fun for children of all ages. It can even be an educational shape and color activity for younger children.

Songs that encourage movement, like the Limbo, the Hokey Pokey and the Chicken Dance can really get kids moving. You could also try these songs, or any music, for a freeze game. Encourage the children to dance, then pause the music and tell them to freeze when the music stops. Have them hold the position until the music starts again.

Move some furniture to create a big open space. Bring in some toys that are normally used outdoors- balls, bikes, riding toys- and let the kids go wild. Of course, to protect your home you'll want to set some rules, like keep the balls low. In winter, bring in a couple of pans full of snow, put on some mittens and give them some sand toys such as small shovels, buckets and scoops. Let them build a mini snowman, or igloo, then put it back outside to preserve it. If you don't have snow, sand is a good option.

Try introducing your children to some classic games that were popular when you were a kid. Games like Simon Says and Follow the Leader are appropriate for children of all ages. Start off being Simon' or the leader, and then let each child have a turn.

Another fun idea for rainy days is messy arts and crafts. Protect the floor with an old sheet and break out the good stuff- finger paint, glitter and glue, or silly putty. A very messy and oh-so-fun concoction is goop, which consists of equal parts corn starch and water. Mix it in bowls and give kids scoops, scrapers, cups, and play dough tools to use with the goop.

Use the art materials in unconventional ways. For instance, take off socks and shoes and have the kids paint with their feet. This can get pretty messy, but it is worth it for the fun the children will have.

On the next rainy day, try some of these activities to keep your children active and creative. With these activities on the schedule, no one will complain of boredom.

Learn more about this author, Marcia J.
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