When the weather outside is cold or rainy, many children become bored and find it difficult to avoid running, jumping and screaming all around the house. Luckily, parents have options to keep their children entertained. There are many activities and games that the children can play to keep them busy and save your house from being trashed.
Fast Draw
This game requires the use of index cards, a large drawing area or dry erase board, a stopwatch and markers. Begin by writing clues on the index cards. Then separate the children into two teams. Designate a player on the first team as the player who will draw and have him pick a card. The word on the card names what the child will be drawing. Set a time limit, such as two minutes, and start the stopwatch. The child draws while his teammates attempt to guess what he is drawing. If the team correctly guesses what it being drawn, the team is awarded a point. Continue until each player has had a chance to draw.
Guessing Game
To play the guessing game, you will need index cards, glue, magazines and a box. Go through the magazines and cut out simple objects like clouds, dogs, cats or anything else that you find. Use your glue to attach the pictures to the index cards. Place the cards inside of your box and shake the box to mix them. Close your eyes and select a card from the box. Use words to explain what the object is without actually naming the object. The other players have 60 seconds to figure out what your object is. Continue until you have used all of the selected photos.
Target Toss
Start by going around the house and picking objects to use as targets, such as empty cereal boxes, empty milk cartons and toilet paper tubes. Provide each player with items to hit the targets with, such as soft balls or rolled-up socks. Use chairs or tables to set up the objects. Use a belt or other object to create a throwing line on the floor. Assign a point value for hitting each object and keep score throughout the game. The first child who reaches a set amount of points is the winner.
Dress Up
Playing dress up is a fun way to allow younger children to play without necessarily worrying about the rules of a game. The game differs a little, depending on whether the children are boys or girls. Allow the children to play with any old clothes, glasses, hats, wigs, jewelry, gloves, handbags and belts. Accessories such as old Halloween costumes, swords, wands, fairy wings, boas and anything else that gets the creative juices flowing is also encouraged. Once the children are dressed up, allow them to hold a fashion to describe what they are wearing.
References
- "Great Games! 175 Games & Activities for Families, Groups & Children!"; Matthew Toone; 2009
- "Fun on the Run: 324 Instant Family Activities; Cynthia L. Copeland; 2004
- "Great Big Book of Children's Games: Over 450 Indoor & Outdoor Games for Kids"; Debra Wise; 2003
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