8 Cheap activities for a rainy day with Baby

Earlier this month we had some absolutely atrocious weather in Sydney! The rain was relentless and the scarves and winter coats came out in force. But the thought of spending the winter days at home, just me and my eight month old Baby Max, has us both crawling up the walls. So I’ve come up with a list of things to keep him entertained and me sane until the sun makes another appearance. Thought I’d share it for anyone looking for some inspiration to entertain your bub this winter.

1. Storytime at the local library

Stories, songs, and a little bit of dancing. This free activity provides loads of stimulation, fun and people watching for Baby. But get there early... it’s a popular activity on wet days!

2. Swimming

Okay so this one still involves getting wet... but so long as the pool is indoor and heated, it’s a sure fire way to delight and tire out your little water Baby. If You’re lucky You’ll get an extra long sleep afterwards.

3. Play date

Rainy days are the perfect opportunity to invite friends with Babies over for a catch-up and a play... or to go visiting with a packet of TimTams. My mothers’ group has traded our old summer catch-up location of the beach in favour of visiting each others’ houses with the heaters cranked and the kettle on overdrive.

4. Christmas shopping

I know, I know... it’s July. And this one probably doesn’t really count as ‘cheap’. But there are some good sales on at this time of year... so rather than waste any of the summer months fighting the crowds, why not get it out of the way now? Though this activity depends on the age and temperament of your Baby as to whether they are happy being carted around the shops. It’s probably at least best to know what You’re shopping for in advance in case Baby decides he doesn’t feel like shopping. Some shopping centres have play zones where crawling Babies can have a blast too.

5. Visit the grandparents

Better still... drop the Baby off at the grandparents and enjoy some Baby free time!

6. Bake off

Strap on the Baby carrier and let Baby watch You make cake. Endless fascination can be found at the bottom of a mixing bowl of flour. Just watch out for curious little fingers.

7. Playgroups

Playgroups are set up and run by parents and caregivers all over Australia. The activities are for children between 0 to 5 years old and are either free or low cost. You can find your closest Playgroup on the Playgroup Australia website.

8. Photo shoot

Grab a bunch of silly props and spend an hour at home taking some fun pics of Bub. Whether or not You take any keepers, Baby will doubtless enjoy the attention and the silly faces You pull in pursuit of that gummy smile. My personal favourite is Baby in a teacup.

xo Carla

Author Bio - Carla - a half Kiwi, half Brit chick, who now calls Australia home. She’s currently taking a break from a career in communications to be a first time mum to Baby Max. Carla and Max live in Sydney with Daddy Ben and their two crazy cats, Ash and Pixie. Carla and Ben blog about Max's daily exploits at www.maxbuxton.org..

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