What on EARTH happened to summer?

I mean, I know it's Northern Ireland, and jumpers are generally a good idea, but for goodness' sake the weather fairies are playing us up this month!


If you've got kids (and if you are reading this, you probably have. Or you know someone who does. Or wish you didn't :p) then you will know that Rain Is Not A Parent's Friend. Oh no. There is, after all, a finite amount of time one would prefer one's cherubs to spend goggling at the electronic babysitter, sorry, TV, even if it is "educational!"


So I thought this week I might give you some lovely, friendly ideas for Things To Do When The Weather is Evil. Some of them aren't even messy!


First of all, at least it isn't freezing cold. (well, comparatively. Compared to, say, Antarctica)  The goblins and I have had some lovely rainy walks on the beach, where the sea creatures are still nice and amenable to being poked at. And the storms have thrown up some fantastic sea junk - never go home empty handed. (NOT for want of trying!) All you need are waterproofs and wellies, and a healthy disregard for the state of your hair and mascara, and away you go!


As for indoor activities, well, there is plenty to be done. How about a sheet of lining paper masking taped to the floor (disclaimer: NOT your best cream shag pile, best attempted with hard floors!) Fill a couple of baking trays with paint, let the children get bare footed and handed and create a wonderful work of art.


Other messy play ideas - instead of playdoh, why not try mashed sweet potato? Or other unusual tastes - especially for younger toddlers and babies, not only is it a fun developmental experience, it is completely edible.


How about a glow-in-the-dark sensory experience - pull the curtains against the torrential rain, or build a den with chairs and blankets, scatter some glow stars and planets around. Wee glow spinning tops, fibreoptic lights, even a glow in the dark jigsaw puzzle! Lots of light and sound products here


When it comes to creating masterpieces, you need lots of wonderful materials - feathers, sequins, foam, stickers, glitter, pom poms and the like. Oh, and lots and lots of sticky glue. Given enough variety, your wee people will amuse themselves (with minimal mess, promise :p) for ages! Have a look here


OK, all my ideas are messy, I admit it, that's all I really like to do :p


Anyone care to share their indoor ideas?