Getting Kids Outside in All Weather (Even On Rainy Days)
Taking children outdoors can be so impactful, it almost feels like magic. Whether they (or you!) are feeling grumpy, frustrated, over-excited or exhausted, a breath of fresh air can quickly transform even the worst of moods. And when the sun is shining, flowers are blooming and birds and chirping, it’s an easy win for everyone.
But what about the rest of the time? When it feels like the sky has been grey for days, the ground is covered in muddy puddles and the only wildlife you can see from the window is a single, soggy pigeon – but your children desperately need a change of scene? Getting children outside in winter or bad weather can feel like a real chore, but it’s seriously worth it. outdoor play in cold and wet weather supports mental and physical health as well as boosting dopamine from moving our bodies, immunity from being out in daylight. The benefits are endless.
Forest School Leader’s Advice on Surviving Rainy Days
Forest school principles are rooted in outdoor learning through play, and they offer invaluable guidance for families wanting to embrace all-weather outdoor play at home. We asked Forest School expert, Rowan Wynne-Jones of Dig and Delve Forest School, for her advice on how to get kids outside in all weather.
“You don’t need to overthink outdoor play,” she says. “You can set some guidelines as to how to stay safe, but generally you're just allowing them to explore. It’s so worthwhile – simply being in nature is calming for the nervous system.”
And when it’s rainy?
“Well, some children just don’t like getting wet and muddy. But something I say to children who are struggling with a situation is, ‘The only way you know that you’re not going to be able to do this is if you give up.’”
If you can just get them out of the door and into the fresh air, they will hopefully discover that there is plenty of fun to be had, whatever the weather.
Planning a Rainy Day Outdoors
A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to rainy day outdoor activities for kids, especially during colder months.
- Gather your wet weather gear
You might have heard the saying ‘there’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothes.’ There are some amazing warm, waterproof options available for the whole family and there’s no denying it – good quality wet weather clothes really help with successful all-weather outdoor play for families. Bundle everyone up if you want to go out in chilly conditions, or for a longer time. But if you have just discovered that one welly boot has a holey sole, don’t be put off – keep reading to find out how to get outside on wet days even if you don’t have waterproofs!
- Pack drinks and snacks
An insulated flask of hot water can turn a rainy day trip from a soggy nightmare into a cosy core memory. Pack cups, instant hot chocolate, coffee, squash, tea bags etc and you’ll be able to quickly provide a warm treat for anyone who needs one. Always test the temperature before giving warm drinks to children. Don’t forget the snacks!
- Prepare an activity or two
Simplicity is the key here – you don’t want to carry a heavy bag or spend ages setting something up, but a carefully-chosen toy or two support nature play for young children and help them stay engaged outdoors. Read on for a list of suggested things to do outdoors on rainy days.
- Head for the woods…
Trees provide natural shelter and help disperse light rain, as long as conditions are calm and safe (never play around trees in windy conditions).
- …Or other ‘indoors/outdoors’ spots
Does your local park have a bandstand, or play equipment you can play underneath? These are great locations for a bit of rainy day play!
- Embrace the chaos
Everyone’s going to get wet, so jump in those puddles and let the kids play freely (within clear boundaries set by you).
- End on a high
Get everyone back home or into a car before they get fed up about being wet. If anyone starts shivering or feeling uncomfortable, bundle everyone home straight away.
- Dry out the wet stuff
Stuff wet shoes and wellies with newspaper and put them in a warm spot to dry (but not straight on a radiator, as they may crack). Chuck everything else in the washing machine and enjoy the change of pace now everyone is warm and dry, having had lots of fun!
How to Get Outdoors in the Rain Even if You Don’t Have All the Gear?
You don’t need specialist equipment to enjoy outdoor play in cold and wet weather — flexibility and planning matter far more. If you’ve just realised that the one welly has been left at nursery, or a coat is suddenly too small, don’t worry. Here’s how you can still get your children out on rainy days without waterproofs (as long as it’s not too cold or windy and your children aren’t too little).
- Prepare with spares
Take dry clothes wrapped in a plastic bag in case anyone feels they need to get out of their wet clothes immediately.
- Have a ‘post wet play’ plan ready before you go out
Before you go out, work out what you’re going to do when you get home. Make sure everyone will be back in a warm house, in dry clothes, or even straight into a warm bath, as soon as you’ve finished playing.
- Keep it brief
Even ten minutes of fresh air can blow away the cobwebs and change all of our moods
Outdoor Games for Rainy Days
Den building
Den building is a classic forest school activity for young children, encouraging problem-solving, teamwork and confidence outdoors. Tender Leaf’s Forest Trail Kit contains everything you need for an outdoor adventure, all packed in a wild wolf bag that is the perfect size to be carried by mini adventurers. The waterproof sheet can be strung between branches in minutes to make a shelter, or laid out under a leafy tree to sit on. This handy kit also includes a magnifying glass, wooden whistle, compass, leaf hunt game and suggestions of different ways to build dens, so it’s bound to keep kids occupied for ages!
Puddle jumping
Who can make the biggest splash? Which puddle is the deepest?
Be a bug expert
Identify insects with Tender Leaf’s Bug Hotel – a gorgeously-illustrated wooden toy that can help 3-6 year olds to learn to love wildlife while sorting shapes – a wonderful example of outdoor learning for families, even on rainy days. Make sure you wipe wooden toys dry once you have finished playing.
Worm spotting
Who can spot the most? Are the worms coming out to enjoy the rain, or wriggling under the soil? Does anyone know a song about worms?!
Hide and seek
This game doesn’t need good weather. Try hiding a favourite toy for a spin on this classic game – Threadbear’s Little Peeps figures love being out in the woods (and can be hung out to dry later – just don’t bring their matchbox homes out in the rain!
Why Getting Outside In All Weather Matters
Supports brain development and focus
Outdoor play stimulates multiple senses at once, helping children regulate attention and process information. Even short periods outside can improve concentration and emotional balance, especially on grey, rainy days.
Builds confidence and resilience
Navigating puddles, mud and uneven ground helps children learn what their bodies can do. These small challenges support confidence-building through outdoor play and encourage healthy risk awareness.
Reduces reliance on screens
Rainy days often mean more time indoors and on screens. Getting outside, even briefly, offers a natural alternative that supports creativity, movement and connection.
Strengthens physical health and immunity
Regular outdoor play encourages movement, supports coordination and helps children experience daylight and fresh air year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting Kids Outside in the Rain
Is it safe for children to play outside in the rain?
Yes, as long as conditions are mild and children are appropriately supervised. Avoid high winds or very cold temperatures, watch for signs of discomfort like shivering, and always have a warm, dry plan for afterwards.
How long should children stay outside in wet weather?
Even 10-20 minutes of outdoor play in wet weather can boost mood and energy. Short, positive experiences are often more successful than long outings, especially for younger children.
What can kids do outside on rainy days?
Rainy days are perfect for den building, puddle jumping, bug spotting, nature games and imaginative play. Simple activities using natural materials or open-ended outdoor toys help children stay engaged without needing screens.
Do children need waterproof clothing to play outside in the rain?
Not always. Waterproof clothing helps for longer play, but short outdoor sessions are still possible with spare clothes, sheltered areas like trees and a clear plan to warm up afterwards.
Why is outdoor play better than screen time on rainy days?
Outdoor play supports physical movement, creativity, emotional regulation and attention in ways screens can’t. Being outside, even briefly, helps reset the nervous system and improves focus and mood.
