Mummies, you know those evenings when the rain starts just as the kids are ready to go out? I feel you.
If everyone’s home and getting restless, you don’t need a big plan or a special trip to the shops. A blanket fort, a family film, a simple game or a bit of drawing can be enough to save the evening from the “Mum, I’m bored!” chorus.
Here are five easy ideas using things you may already have at home.
Pick whichever one feels manageable today, fellow mummies. No pressure to do them all!
1. Build a Blanket Fort
Everyone knows that sleepy feeling you get when it starts to rain heavily, and what better way to take advantage of that than to build a blanket fort!
A couple of chairs, a bedsheet and some cushions can become a clubhouse, a reading nook or a cosy hideaway for soft toys.
Let the kids choose what their fort is for today. They might want to bring in a few books, draw a sign for the entrance or have a pretend sleepover.
If you have little ones, keep the fort simple and stay close while they play.
Keep blankets away from lamps and cables, and leave an easy way in and out.
There’s no need to make it Pinterest-perfect; the wonky fort they helped build is probably the one they’ll remember.
The best blanket forts are the ones that you’ve built yourself, so make sure to involve the whole family.
There is no doubt that this will lift those spirits in no time!
2. Have a Cosy Movie Night
Some evenings, everyone just needs to sit down for a bit—and that’s completely fine.
Now that you have a blanket fort, the obvious course of action is to have a movie night inside it. Get cosy with all your pillows and stuffed animals and put on one of the family favourites.
Let the kids take turns choosing a family-friendly film, pile onto the sofa and get comfortable.
If you feel like making it extra fun, they can draw pretend tickets or make a poster for your “home cinema”.
Afterwards, ask what their favourite bit was. You might get a full retelling of the film or a quick “the funny part!” before they run off to play. Either way, it’s a lovely little moment together.
Snacks are optional, mummies. If you do serve some, choose what’s suitable for your child’s age and keep an eye on the little ones while they eat.
Here are some healthy options to munch on. When all else fails, popcorn is the way to go.
Of all the rainy-day activities, this is the most laid-back so take as an easy option to occupy your kids for some time.
The great thing about family movie nights is that the fun doesn’t stop when the screen turns off.
Talking over the plot, retelling jokes and comparing favourite characters makes movies such a great bonding activity.
3. Make a Warm Apple-and-Cinnamon Drink
If you fancy something warm, simmer sliced apples with water and a little cinnamon until the kitchen smells lovely.
Hot apple cider (the non-alcoholic kind!) is one of the most comforting things to have on a cold and rainy day.
The ingredients you need for apple cider are simple:
- apples
- cinnamon (preferably whole)
- water
- sugar
- nutmeg (optional)
The measurements are completely up to you, but the usual portions are one apple for two cups of water with spices and sugar to taste.
To start, cut up the apples and boil them in the water. You can leave the skin on but remove the seeds.
The cinnamon can be added at the same time.
If you don’t have whole pieces of cinnamon, you can use powder but it may leave a slight bitter taste that can be masked with sugar.
The natural sweetness of the apple is there, so you can skip the sugar – or add a little if your family prefers it sweeter.
You can also add a pinch of nutmeg, if you like.
Once the cider has turned a deep amber colour, you can take it off the heat and serve.
Make sure to cool it down before giving it to the kids, fellow parents!
The kids can help wash the apples or decide how much cinnamon to add.
And if apples aren’t a hit at your house, just make your usual warm drink. No need to turn it into a recipe project.
4. Bring Out a Game or Make One Up
A board game, puzzle or pack of cards can keep everyone busy for a while.
Don’t have one handy? Try charades, “I spy” or a guessing game. You can also start a story with one sentence and take turns adding the next. The sillier the story gets, the better.
With younger kids, keep the rules loose and don’t worry about finishing the game. Older children can explain the rules or help invent a new one.
And if your first idea gets a chorus of “boring!”, don’t take it personally. Just try something else.
5. Have a Little Craft Session
If you want an option that will occupy your family for a long time, arts and crafts are the way to go.
There are plenty of options for you to choose from.
Paper and crayons can go a long way. Make bookmarks, draw pictures for the grandparents or turn a clean box into a pretend shop.
If you have washable paint or glue, put some old newspaper on the table first. You’ll thank yourself later!
Let the kids choose what to make.
It might turn out beautifully, or it might be a few scribbles and a lot of glue—and that’s okay too.
Keep small craft bits away from little ones who might put them in their mouths.
Still Hearing “I’m Bored”?
If the kids have energy to burn, put on a favourite song and have a living-room dance break.
You could also make a simple treasure hunt or a pillow path across the floor.
If everyone’s ready for something quieter, look through family photos or let each child choose a book.
And mummies, you don’t have to keep them entertained every minute.
Pick one idea, see how it goes and give yourself permission to call it a day when it’s time for dinner or bedtime.
If there’s thunder or lightning, it’s best to stay indoors in a sturdy building and check local updates before heading out.
METMalaysia shares current forecasts and warnings, and Public InfoBanjir shares flood information. METMalaysia’s thunderstorm safety advice recommends moving into a sturdy building or car during a storm.
Rainy evenings can change the plan, but they don’t have to be a write-off.
A little fort, one silly game or a cosy film might be just what your family needs tonight!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Keep a Toddler and an Older Child Busy Together?
Mummies with kids of different ages – I know this can be tricky! Give them the same theme but different jobs: one can draw a “fort” sign, while the other helps set up the cushions. Keep small pieces away from toddlers, and let the older child feel like a helper without making them responsible for watching their sibling.
What Can I Keep Ready for an Unexpected Rainy Evening?
A small rainy-day box can save you a last-minute rummage. Pop in paper, crayons, a deck of cards, stickers and a favourite puzzle. Keep it somewhere easy to reach, then swap a few things now and then so it still feels fun when you bring it out.
What If My Child Is Upset That We Had to Cancel Our Plans?
That’s understandable, especially if they were looking forward to going out. Give them a moment to feel disappointed before suggesting a new plan. You could say, “I know; I’m sad we can’t go too. Shall we choose something cosy to do at home?” Sometimes being heard helps more than trying to cheer them up straight away.
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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