When the weather won’t cooperate, a good toy box is the best plan B. Here are six easy ways to fill a rainy afternoon without reaching for a screen.
1. Build a fort, then a story
Blankets and cushions first, then ask what happens inside it.
2. Sort the toy box by color
A simple sorting game that doubles as tidy-up time.
3. Indoor obstacle course
Cushions to hop over, a rope to balance on, a basket to toss into.
4. Musical instrument jam
Pots, shakers, or a real first instrument, five minutes of noise is good for everyone.
5. Puzzle relay
Race to finish a puzzle together, piece by piece.
6. Pretend play kitchen
A play kitchen or tea set turns ten minutes into an hour, easily.
Keep a small rotating shelf of toys for exactly these afternoons, so nothing ever feels stale.