Today's Forecast: 100% Chance of Indoor Fun!

By: Jamie Davis Smith, Contributor at Everyday Family and Huffington Post; Professional Photographer.

All parents know that kids are happiest when they're playing outdoors. Unfortunately for them, and us, there are many days every year the weather just doesn’t cooperate. Even though we've reached the summer months, the rain and the heat can conspire against us to keep kids inside. You may be up for splashing in the puddles or bringing out a sprinkler, but for the days you would rather stay dry, check out some creative ideas for indoor fun.  After all, a rainy forecast is never a pain when you use your imagination.

Blocks Building with blocks is also a great indoor activity. Go beyond the basics with this fun Create & Play Patterns Block set from Manhattan Toy Company that includes not just unusual shapes but fun patterns to allow kids (and parents) to stretch their creativity. Dolls My daughter loves taking her Groovy Girls on adventures in their Groovy car or to big-kid school with a Groovy locker. I love that these dolls don’t just come in fun themes like ladybug and lollypop, but they also have a variety of skin tones and hair colors. There’s even a boy doll Logan.

Which ones do your little ones enjoy when rainy skies keep them inside? For more rainy day activities from our contributor, head on over to http://www.everydayfamily.com/slideshow/stuck-inside-check-30-fun-indoor-activities/ Save Save Save Save Save Save Save Save