By Jennifer in the Youth Services Office

April showers don’t need to get you down! You can enjoy many great adventures with your little ones, even when the skies are gray. Try these fun activities to brighten up your next rainy day.

BUILD:

Break out the blocks, boxes or pillows and work together on a project. You could build a medieval castle, dreamy reading fort or stellar space station. The possibilities are as limitless as your imagination. Talking with your child about the structure can help build those language and storytelling skills.

PLAY:

Active games like Shape Hopscotch are a great way to build literacy skills and burn some extra energy while staying indoors. To make this game, cut some paper into familiar shapes and tape them to the floor with painter's tape. This activity works great with a flat, open space and colored paper. You can practice jumping from one side to the other using only one color or shape or even racing to find a shape or color that another player has called out.

If board games are more your style, you can always open up a classic or create your own. No games at home? Stop by your favorite Library branch to play a game! While visiting, remember to browse the toys, books and movies available for you to check out before you leave.

CREATE:

Let your creative juices flow with art materials! The possibilities are endless when you add writing materials, clay, scissors or glue to your family time. You can keep things simple by doing some coloring or journaling. If you want an immersive art experience, you can practice drawing shapes or letters in shaving cream or finger paint. Adults and children five years and up can even practice learning new skills by logging in to Creativebug with your library card!

Crafting isn't the only way to express your creativity! Try creating a new recipe, putting on a play or creating your own story together to pass the time.

SING:

Pull out your pots, pans and large spoons to practice repeating the rhythm of the rain or your favorite nursery rhymes! Need something a little quieter? Log into Hoopla with your library card and check out some digital music to brighten your day! Sing along as a family ensemble, or put on your headphones to enjoy a little me-time.  

Need more ideas? Check out https://thelibrary.org/racingtoread/ or ask your librarian for suggestions!