Make Rainy Summer Days Magical
cozy rainy day ideas & free printable activity cards
The forecast said sunshine, so we packed the beach towels and popsicles for a classic summer day. But when the clouds rolled in, we found joy in the unexpected—a cozy rainy day full of laughter, indoor play, and slow moments.
And honestly?
It might’ve been one of the best afternoons we had all summer.
Afterwards, we splashed in puddles. Delighted in the childlike joy of getting our clothes wet and not caring one bit. The kind of delight you don’t plan for, but remember forever.
Being “rained in” is one of those strange little blessings that’s easy to miss in the daily shuffle of snacks, sunscreen, and sibling negotiations.
Maybe instead of seeing it as plans canceled, we can see it as permission granted.
Permission to do less.
To nap.
To light the candle at 3 PM just because.
To listen.
Rainy days always ask us to slow down—and when we do, something beautiful happens.
It reminds me of summers as a kid: mornings full of sun and mischief, and afternoons softened by rain. The kind that gave us full permission to rest.
At summer camp, rainy days aren’t boring—they are beloved.
Story-swap days.
Letter-writing days.
Craft-in-the-corner days.
Maybe what we really need more of… is that.
More freedom to be gentle.
More space to just be.
Cozy Rainy Day Activities For Kids And Moms
Whether you’re looking for rainy day activities for kids or a little summer self-care for yourself, these gentle ideas invite you to savor the moment.
Here’s a little list of low-key ways to savor a summer rain day.
For the Kids:
📬 Build a mailbox and start a family “mail” system (great for handwriting practice!)
🎨 Create a rain museum with art and weather charts.
🧸 Host a stuffed animal talent show.
🍪 Bake rainy day cookies (sprinkles = joy).
🔦 Tell shadow puppet stories by flashlight.
🎲 Play board games in pajamas—a timeless rainy day activity that brings everyone together.
📚 Build a cozy reading fort—one of the best indoor activities for kids on stormy days.
🎵 Learn a new camp song and belt it out from the couch cushions.
📝 Write a letter to a pen pal—don’t forget to draw them a picture too.
For You, Mama:
☕️ Make a slow cup of tea and drink it while it’s still hot.
💌 Write a letter to your past self—gentle reflection is a form of self-care.
🕯 Fold laundry with a candle lit and music on.
🌧 Sit by the window and notice the rain.
😴 Take a guilt-free nap (movie time = mama rest time).
🎨 Craft alongside your kids—watercolor, beads, doodles, anything soft and simple.
📖 Revisit your favorite childhood book (yes, Harry Potter counts).
🧘🏼♀️ Do some gentle yoga stretches—move your body with cozy indoor activities designed for calm.
📸 Organize the photos on your phone—delete duplicates and photos you wouldn’t print.
Foxie and June Exclusive Freebie: Printable Rainy Day Activity Cards
I put together something special for your rainy day toolkit—a set of printable Rainy Day Activity Cards for kids. They're simple and spark just enough whimsy to turn a gloomy day into a cozy adventure and spark fun indoor play for little ones aged 3–10.
Here’s how to use them:
Download this free rainy day printable for kids (see below for link).
Print the sheet (I recommend cardstock, but regular paper works fine too).
Cut out the individual activity cards—perfect for little hands to grab.
Toss them into a jar, bowl, or basket.
Pick one when the “I’m bored”s start rolling in… and let the play unfold.
CLICK BELOW TO DOWNLOAD YOUR RAINY DAY ACTIVITY CARDS 👇🏻
Mama, I see you.
You’re doing so much. You’re holding all the summer camp schedules and popsicle stick negotiations together. And when the skies darken and the rain begins to fall, I hope it feels like a little love letter from the universe:
It’s okay to rest.
Let the house be a little wild.
Let the plans be undone.
Let yourself be still.
Because rain doesn’t ruin summer—it deepens it.
Let’s chat...
What’s your favorite rainy day ritual?
Comment below and tell me—I collect cozy stories like fireflies in a jar.
I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to all of you who subscribe to this publication. Putting together these newsletters for you is a true joy, and your paid subscriptions allow me to dedicate the time and effort they deserve.
If this newsletter brings value to your life, consider becoming a subscriber. Upgrade to a paid subscription and unlock exclusive access to all my work. I completely understand if a paid subscription isn't in the cards right now. No worries!
Here are some great ways you can still support the newsletter for free:
Engage with this post on Substack! Let me know what you think with a like and a comment.
Spread the word! Restack a favorite quote or part of the newsletter on Substack.
Share the love on social media! Snap a screenshot of something you enjoyed and share it with your network.
Forward this email to someone who might be interested! (Welcome aboard if you received this from a friend! You can subscribe below!)
Subscribe to Teatime & Wildflowers for more slow living inspiration, seasonal printables, and gentle reflections for moms. You’ll get access to every cozy activity kit—including this one.