two kids in the rain with an umbrella
Check out CW’s list of fun things to do to keep the whole family entertained whatever the weather. Image: iStock.

When the rain sets in, the thought of entertaining the kids can be a challenge. While home craft ideas like making slime are fun, why not do something the whole family is sure to enjoy? Here are 10 fun things for the kids and grown-ups to do, no matter their rainy-day mood.

Vote for MoAD

A rainy day is perfect for visiting the Museum of Australian Democracy (MoAD) at Old Parliament House. Explore the historic spaces and exhibitions at your own pace or follow the Discovery Trail with things to find, see, hear, do and try around every corner. Entry is free but bookings are essential. You can do that here.

Check out the NFSA

The National Film and Sound Archive reopens to the public on Friday 5 November. Visit the interactive ‘Hive’ installation (bookings not required) to gain an insight into the NFSA collection and check out ‘Starstruck: On Location’ featuring 16 striking movie portraits. Arc Cinema reopens onsite on Saturday 6 November at 10.30am with a free screening of the Australian classic ‘Babe’ (G), the much-loved film about a little pig that yearns to find his role on the farm. Bookings essential. Make sure to visit the NFSA website to see what’s on and to plan ahead!

Borrow a book from the library

ACT public libraries at Belconnen, Dickson, Gungahlin, Kingston and Tuggeranong have reopened for limited days and hours so you can visit the library to browse the shelves and borrow items, use computers, collect reserved items, and drop off returns – but you’re asked to stay for 30 minutes max. Or stay home and check out Libraries ACT Online Kids’ Programs. Registrations are open for the Mystery Box delivery service and the Home Library Service (eligibility criteria apply).

Try a new recipe

Concerned cooking will turn into a recipe for disaster? Don’t be, cooking is one of the best skills to learn! Start small with berry banana crumble muesli bars or why not check out our recipe for banoffee pie for a little inspiration? With a little time and effort, you’ll have a mini Master Chef in the making and a delicious snack for later.

Explore Australia’s largest collection of art at the National Gallery of Australia in the heart of Canberra’s Parliamentary Triangle. Check out What’s on for kids and families for a more tailored, kiddie friendly experience. Or join the Gallery at home and have some fun making, thinking and talking about art with a range of online and downloadable Artist Activities sure to bring out the artist in everyone. You can find activity sheets to download here.

Set up an indoor treasure hunt

Just because you don’t want to go outside, doesn’t mean you can’t go exploring. Have one person set up an indoor treasure hunt and make some clues about ordinary indoor objects to get everyone thinking. Add a prize into the mix and watch the house explode as everyone races to find the clues. 

Leave no pin standing at bowling

Ten-pin bowling centres are open again with COVID-safe protocols in place. Grab a ball and get rolling at your local bowling alley. A game of calculation and skill, this is an activity that’s perfect for kids big and small. Invite some friends and make a day of it. Not only is it great exercise, with ramps and bumpers anyone can bowl.

Host a video game tournament

Show the kids who’s boss and duke it out for the title of ultimate champion. Mario Kart is a classic and is sure to bring out some good fun family competition. Add some snacks and the day is sorted.

Happy ethnic family watching television together

Organise a themed movie marathon 

If you don’t feel like leaving the house, why not have a themed movie marathon? Think of movies in the same genre, that feature the same actor, or even just watch movies taking place in LA or Paris for a staycation feel. A classic Disney movie marathon will get everyone singing at the top of their lungs. The options are endless.

Get hands on with Questacon

Looking for hands-on STEM activities to do at home with your kids? The Questacon team have developed a huge collection of activity sheets for children from Kindergarten all the way through to Year 12. These activity sheets are easily downloadable so they can be printed and done offline and were designed to be interesting, engaging and full of hands on learning experiences where parents and kids can work together. Download the sheets and get out and about around your house and backyard and enjoy some Questacon at Home!  

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