Obviously, I reckon it's good to still get outside a bit in all weathers. But there are those days when it's freezing, a blowing a gale, and you're still trying to get the wellies dry from venturing out the day before. (Why do wellies take so long to dry?!)

Here are some easy activity ideas for you to try when a day indoors is the best option. 

Build a Den

I see den building kits all the time in charity shops for a couple of quid. But just as good is the back of sofas, chairs, tables, blankets, sheets. Best of all is if the kids can have a run around the house doing it for themselves. Once built, dens make great cosy spaces for watching tablets with snacks, and pretending you're at the cinema. 

Simon Says

You know the drill. Whatever simon says goes. Anyone elses and you shall not pass. Only Simon's word is law. Make sure you give the kids a go at being Simon, (Or your alternative name), and see what silly things spring from their imagination. 

Sing Karaoke

If you've got a karaoke machine, and mics and whatnot then awesome. If not, then you can have just as much fun putting the wooden spoons to good use in front of karaoke versions of songs, and lyric videos on youtube. Bonus points if you can create some kind of wind machine or glitter ball. 

Teddy Bear's Tea Party

I love this one, especially as it's so adaptable to whatever age the kids are. With little ones you can just put out a rug with teddies, and some plastic cups and plates and pretend food. For older ones you can keep adapting it. Especially if they love baking. Get them to write invitations to the rest of the family, make a menu, and bake some treats for you to all enjoy. They could even charge you some (small) coins as part of the experience.

Junk Modelling

For many years now I've kept a big box of interesting tubs, tubes, cardboard etc. As well as a selection of tape, and paint. (All cheap at poundland). Younger kids will need a bit of help with hot gluing, and cutting etc. But remember to keep it child led. Even if that means that it turns out looking a bit rubbish. Guide them but don't take over. (I'm still working on this)

The Floor is Lava

How far through the house can they get without stepping on the ground? 

Hide and Seek

An absolute classic. ALSO an opportunity for you to get 5 minutes of sitting down in peace if you play it well. My favourite is hiding under a pile of blankets and cushions on the sofa. I've also taught my son and the dog a version where they play it together! The dog stays in the room with me "counting" and then gets released to hunt for my son. To very comical effect. 

Puppet / Talent Show

Let them play to their strengths. If they're old enough, they might want to post invitations, set up the living room in a theatre style, issue people with tickets etc. They might want to make some sock puppets, or shadow puppets. 

Laser Alarm

Rafiki's FAVOURITE. If it ever goes quiet then I know he's found some sellotape and covered the kitchen with 'lasers'. My job is then to cross the kitchen, or retrieve the item from the middle without setting off the alarms. If you're child is less obsessed with sellotape than mine is then you could use string as well which would be a lot more reusbale.