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Tips & Tricks for Playing in the Rain this Spring

By By Makayla Silva, Editor & Publisher of Macaroni Kid New Haven April 12, 2021

Rainy days are often synonymous with board games and movies, puzzles and baking. And believe me, we love each and every one those things. But, we also have found immense joy in playing in the rain. 

As adults, rain typically has us running for cover. Dashing from here to there, praying we don’t ruin or shoes – or worst, damage our phones. At home, rainy days are often synonymous with board games and movie marathons, puzzles and baking. And we do really love everything on that list. Except.  

Except, have you ever looked at rain the way children do? Have you marveled at the rain the way your small children might? It’s not always so easy for adults to think about heading out in the rain…for pleasure. But, if you let yourself think like a kid again, you just might find yourself having a bit of fun.

You see to children, rain means puddles. Rain means rain dancing. Rain means mudpies. 

Spending time in the outdoors as a family brings so many wonderful sensory experiences that, when you actually slow down to take them in, are completely inspiring and enriching for everyone involved. Playing in the rain with your children is just one of those things you’ll have to experience for yourself.


Our Best Tips and Techniques

The Right Approach – Let’s start by saying that there are definitely some days when too much rain is just too much rain. Use your best judgement. If there is heavy wind or temperatures below 45 degrees, consider staying inside. Moderate rain in temperatures above 45 degrees are ideal.  

The Right Gear –Cotton or wool base layer and a waterproof outer layer consisting of a raincoat, rain paints and rain boots are your best option for staying warm and dry.  For little ones, we love one-piece suits for rain, especially Oakiwear. For boots we prefer Bogs. Mittens also really help, especially when temperatures dip below 50 degrees. 

Tuck everything in! - This is by far proven to be the most effective method for keeping your children clean, dry, and warm. Tuck regular pants into the rainboots and tuck the rain pants over the rain boots.

Be Prepared – If you’re leaving the house to play in the rain, be sure to pack a well-stocked bag of extra clothes. Extra socks are the most important. 

Hang it up to dry – Even if it's covered in mud, rain gear can simply be hung up in the basement, garage or mudroom to dry. It’s much easier brushing off dirt once dry. No need to wash raingear after every use.

Roll Around - Never underestimate the cleaning power of a child rolling through grass. It can work wonders in getting the mud off and make your clean-up a little bit easier.

Pack a Yummy, Warm Treat - Consider packing a thermos of hot chocolate or tea to enjoy during or after play. 

The Right Attitude -Jump in the puddles. Collect rainwater in a container and then dip sidewalk chalk into the bucket and draw. Take bath toys outside to play. There are so many wonderful ways to embrace the rainy weather with your children and by modeling different ways to fall in love with wet rainy days, your children will learn to have fun playing in wet conditions too!