Let's face it, unfortunately the UK summer time can sometimes be a little unreliable… but do not worry. Here at cocobabybox.com we have pulled together our top 5 favourite indoor ideas to help keep those little adventurers occupied. 

1. Building a den… and not just any den 

A den is a great way for little ones to learn about problem solving and working with others. It is also a great way for them to build their imagination skills.

Make the ultimate den by adding some unexpected materials such as Christmas lights or glow in the dark crafts. Another great way to keep those little humans busy in their dens is by prompting their imagination with a play-scenario. 

For example, why not build a Magical den? Inspire kids to take turns being different characters (wizards, witches, etc) while they hide out in their magical and secret layer. It’s amazing how much joy and entertainment building a simple or ornate den can bring to children. Kids will connect with parents and siblings in an extra special way. 

Best of all, the supplies are at your fingertips.

Magical den must haves:

• Pillows
• Lots of Blankets
• Lots of Pillows
• Torch
• Story Books
• Christmas Lights
• Glow in the Dark Crafts or Stickers
• Stuffed Animals
• Snacks (popcorn and snackable fruits such as grapes work well)

Top Tip: Use a star projector to make their nook a little more magical.

Then all you have to do is hang a blanket or sheet to create a cover, fill the floor with cozy pillows, and put up some twinkling lights. Add snacks, snuggles and storybooks and before you know it hours will have passed and, if you’re lucky, an afternoon snooze may have even emerged!

2. Bowl indoors! 

A great activity to keep them entertained for an hour or 2. 

Indoor bowling must haves:

• Balls - any size will work
• Pins - Lots of things will work, pop bottles, paper towel tubes or toilet paper works well too!

Bowling also helps with fine motor skills from setting up bowling pins to using hand eye coordination to actually knocking down the pins. 

So there you have it! Grab a bowling ball, set up a few items for pins and then let the games begin!

3. Pet grooming salon 

Opening a pet toy grooming salon will keep your little ones occupied for at least a couple of hours. 

Pet grooming salon must haves:

• Your children’s favourite stuffed animals
• Plastic bowl for a wash tub
• Box of grooming supplies: combs, brushes, nail files. 
• Towels
• Clothes. Doll clothes work great!
• Empty shampoo bottles or spray bottles. You can even put a little Fabric detergent in a spray bottle if your animals need a little freshening up.

Then just set up a grooming station for them in one part of the house. This activity encourages creativity and imagination. And... it is the perfect activity to keep your little ones busy for hours (and let’s face it, isn’t that the whole point?).

4. Masking tape race track!

If you have little ones who love race cars, then this masking tape speedway activity could be right up their alley! 

Masking tape race track must haves:

• Selection of their favourite toy cars
• Masking tape

Hand over the masking tape to your little ones and let their creativity thinking get to work by creating tracks for their cars and toys. An amazing way to encourage imagination, creative thinking and will keep them busy for a couple of hours.

5. Self-portraits

A great way to encourage your little one’s imagination and creativity. 

Self-portraits must haves:

• A Mirror - preferably a small, not a valuable one
• Felt tip pens/wipe board pens
• Paper towels 

Using a mirror, let your little ones draw themselves. Point out features like eyebrows and eyelashes. Add in some fashion design too! Let them get creative with this and don't be surprised if they're rocking rainbow hair in the portrait! 😂