5 Fun Things to do Outside When it Rains

Spring is delightful, but it does come with its share of wet weather. But there’s no need to turn to screen time when the rain starts to fall. Simply put on some clothes that can get a bit dirty and a bit wet then get outside and enjoy the soft and soggy day! Our clothes will wash and dry along with our skin — and playing outside in the rain is an unexpectedly wonderful way to pass the day. Here are five great activities to get you splashing and laughing in the spring weather.

Singing in the Rain

We all know that famous choreography would have been nothing on a summer day. So get out the umbrellas, rain gear and video camera and film your very own version of singing — and dancing — in the rain. Planning the routine will get the creative juices flowing and practicing outside is a great way to get fresh air. Think lots of umbrella twirls, puddle splashes and a big finish, all captured on film.

Mud Soccer

What’s more fun than football, soccer or even Ultimate Frisbee? Playing all those sports in the rain, because rain equals mud. Ooey, gooey, fun mud. Don’t worry about the mess — mud washes out. The ground will be nice and soft, so perfect for practicing safe tackles and dives. And after that first mud splatter hits — well, no one’s getting out of this game without a mudslide on their tum or bum.

Save the Worms

It’s a common sight: all those worms on the pavement during and after a rainfall. And while worms may use the moist conditions as the perfect time to wriggle to a new location, there’s no denying that they end up shrivelled casualties of the re-emerging sun. So if the little ones are interested in animals, get out there with a bucket (or bare hands for the less squeamish) and move the worms to safety. Try relocating them to a slightly drier spot like the roots of a bush where they won’t get flooded.

Plan or Check on a Rain Garden

A rainfall is the perfect time to check out the ideal location for a rain garden, which is a landscaped area that collects stormwater that runs down the roof, driveway or grass. A rain garden collects 30 per cent more water than a patch of grass, so it does a great job keeping the water in the natural ecosystem instead of having it run off down streets, where it can collect pollutants. If you already have a rain garden, check on it to see how it is doing during the shower. Planning, building and maintaining a rain garden can be a great family activity that also helps the earth. For more information about rain gardens, check out Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.

Mud Slushies

You’ve made mud pies before and all this rain means that the slushie bar is open! Bring out some glasses, spoons and measuring cups, or use sand toys, and begin to concoct the messiest, slushiest mud drink around, complete with garnish of leaves and twigs. Experiment with different consistencies, mixing techniques and imagined “flavours.” Yum, yum.

Rain is no excuse for staying inside. By playing and exploring outside in the rain, the whole family can have some unique fun while keeping the creativity and energy flowing. Rain, rain — don’t go away!