Creative ways to keep your kids entertained indoors — from a Michigan family photographer who gets it!

By Kelseycharmayne Photography

Rainy days in Michigan come with the territory—especially during spring and those surprise summer storms. As a family photographer, I know how quickly weather can change your plans. But staying inside doesn’t have to feel like a letdown.

With some creativity, rainy days can become the perfect opportunity to slow down, play together, and create beautiful memories at home.

Here are seven fun and easy indoor activities to help kids stay busy—and help families stay connected.

☕ 1. Build the Ultimate Blanket Fort | Rainy Outside

Blankets, pillows, twinkle lights—let the kids design their cozy hideout. It can be a reading nook, a movie theater, or an imaginative escape anywhere.

Memory idea: Cozy forts lit by soft lamps or fairy lights make for the perfect place to preserve a quiet, meaningful moment on camera.

🎨 2. Host an “Art Show” in the Living Room

Create an art station with crayons, markers, paints (if you’re up for it), and paper. Choose a theme—like “outer space” or “our family vacation”—and let the creativity take over. Display their creations gallery-style on the walls or refrigerator, and let each child explain their masterpiece.

Bonus tip: Take a picture of their artwork for a seasonal keepsake or family scrapbook.

🍪 3. Bake Something Simple Together

Kids love being. Part of the process, whether it’s chocolate chip cookies or minis. Let them choose what to make, assign roles, and enjoy the time together in the kitchen.

Photography tip: Capture the little moments—floury hands, giggles over the mixing bowl, or that proud smile when it’s time to taste.

🎭 4. Put On a Talent Show or Puppet Theater

Encourage kids to create their own performances. Singing, dancing, storytelling—it’s all fair game. For little ones, transform a cardboard box into a puppet stage using stuffed animals or socks.

Cheer them on and enjoy the silliness together.

🧩 5. Rotate Toys Like a Toy Library

Toys often feel brand new when tucked away for a while. Switch out a few older favorites for toys that haven’t been played with lately, and watch the excitement spark again.

You can also organize a toy scavenger hunt—have the kids look for items by shape, color, or theme.

📸 6. Create a Rainy Day Photo Booth

Set up a space with silly props like hats, scarves, and sunglasses. Use a sheet as a backdrop or decorate a blank wall, and let the kids devise their own silly or serious poses.

Fun twist: Give them a turn behind the camera—it’s fun to see the world from their point of view.

📚 7. Storytime + Hot Cocoa Bar

Nothing says cozy like warm drinks and good books. Lay out a comfy blanket pile, pick a few favorite stories or movies, and add a little cocoa bar with marshmallows, whipped cream, or sprinkles. It’s a slight touch that turns a simple rainy outside afternoon into a special one.

Michigan Memories, Rain or Shine ☀️🌧️

As a family photographer based in Metro Detroit, I believe real memories happen in everyday moments—whether you're exploring a field at a golden hour or baking cookies on a rainy afternoon. I'd love to connect if you're ever thinking about preserving those moments, even in the comfort of your home.

📧 kelsey@kelseycharmayne.com

📞 734-521-7535

🌐 www.kelseycharmayne.com