Here are some tried and tested ways to keep the kids playing outdoors come rain, wind or sunshine. Whether you’ve got a small garden or a big outdoor space, there’s always a way to make it fun.
Dress for the Weather
This might sound obvious, but it really does make all the difference. Waterproofs, wellies, woolly hats, sunhats and gloves should be ready to go at the drop of a hat. I keep a basket by the back door with all the essentials so we can grab what we need and head out without too much fuss. Layers are brilliant for colder months and in summer, I always make sure they have sunscreen and a lightweight long-sleeve top if the sun is strong.
Invest in Year-Round Equipment
If there’s one thing that gets used constantly in our garden, it’s the Trampoline. Honestly, it has been a lifesaver. As one of our favourite Jeux d’extérieur, it gets used throughout the year. The kids bounce on it in winter, wearing hats and gloves, and in summer it becomes part of their water play setup. As long as it has a cover to protect it from the worst of the rain and frost, a trampoline can provide years of entertainment. We added a few fairy lights around the net for winter afternoons when it gets dark early, and they absolutely love it.
Another brilliant idea is having a mix of outdoor toys that work in all weathers. Think along the lines of garden games, climbing frames, and ride-on toys. We’ve even got a little mud kitchen, which gets much use when wet. In fact, the messier, the better it is in my children’s eyes.
Make Use of Covered Spaces
If you’ve got a patio or even a small section of garden you can cover with a gazebo or canopy, it opens up loads of options. We’ve strung up some fairy lights under ours and it creates a lovely little play area. The kids use it for drawing with chalk, snack picnics, and imaginative games, even when it’s drizzling.
I’ve also seen some families use pop-up tents or beach shelters, which work really well too. Just a bit of shelter can keep the worst of the weather at bay and mean you’re not dashing back indoors at the first sign of rain.
Embrace the Mess
This one took me a while, but once I stopped worrying about muddy clothes and soggy socks, everyone had a lot more fun. We’ve got an old set of clothes that are just for outdoor play and I pop them in the wash as soon as we’re back inside. The joy of jumping in puddles, digging in the garden or making ‘potions’ out of leaves and grass is something I wouldn’t want them to miss.
Sometimes I join in, too. There’s something quite freeing about putting your phone down and getting your hands dirty. The giggles are always worth the extra load of laundry.
Create Seasonal Traditions
Kids love a routine, and creating seasonal outdoor traditions can make being outside something they look forward to, whatever the weather. In autumn, we go on leaf hunts and collect conkers. In winter, it’s hot chocolate in the garden after a chilly play session. Spring is perfect for planting flowers or veg together, and in summer, it’s all about water balloons and shady reading spots.
It gives the whole family a bit of structure and makes the outdoors feel like an extension of the home.
Keep It Simple
Outdoor play doesn’t have to be perfect, and it certainly doesn’t have to be dry. With a little creativity, some warm clothes and a sense of fun, you can make outdoor play work in any weather. Whether your little ones are bouncing on the trampoline or getting stuck into some classic jeux d’extérieur, the main thing is that they’re out there enjoying themselves.
So next time the clouds roll in or the wind picks up, don’t rush to shut the door. Open it wide and let the adventure begin.
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