British summers are unpredictable – one day it's sweltering, the next you're digging out wellies and wondering how to entertain a restless baby indoors. When outdoor plans are rained off, it helps to have a few calm, engaging activities ready to go at home.
Here’s our practical, screen-free guide to rainy day fun with babies and toddlers – featuring our favourite ways to use soft play sets, ball pits, and play mats for safe and imaginative indoor play.
Create a Soft Play Corner
If you’ve got some space in the living room or nursery, a dedicated soft play area can turn a dull day into a mini adventure. Our soft play sets are designed to support movement and creativity, while looking beautiful in your home.
- Use climbing cubes, arches and steps to build confidence and coordination
- Combine with a play mat or rug to create a soft base for crawling and rolling
- Let your toddler help rearrange the pieces to build new shapes and setups
Ball Pit Fun (Without the Overstimulation)
Ball pits don’t have to be noisy or overwhelming. A neutral-toned ball pit is ideal for rainy day sensory play, especially for babies discovering cause and effect.
- Hide soft toys or teethers among the balls for gentle “treasure hunts”
- Practice colour matching or counting with older toddlers
- Encourage climbing in and out to build gross motor skills
Explore soft ball pits for rainy days »
Sensory Play with Muslins & Textiles
Rainy days are perfect for calm, tactile play using things you already have at home. Try:
- Peekaboo with muslin cloths (a classic for a reason)
- Tummy time on a play mat with textured blankets or crinkly toys
- “Build a den” with swaddles or light blankets and a chair or cot frame
Keep colours soft and calming – overstimulation often leads to fussiness by mid-afternoon.
Movement, Music & Mini Routines
Even if you can’t run around outside, movement is still important. A few ideas:
- Play soft music and bounce gently on the play mat or hold a mini dance party
- Try baby yoga or “follow the leader” stretches on the floor
- End with a cuddly wind-down using a light blanket and a short story
Calm, Screen-Free Ideas Without the Toys
Not every rainy day moment has to be filled with activity – some of the best indoor time comes from simply slowing down. Try:
- Reading together – even very young babies love the rhythm of your voice
- Listening to nature sounds – rain on the windows, soft music or gentle lullabies
- Looking out the window and talking about the weather, trees or passing cars
- Family photo time – flip through albums or take new snaps to send to grandparents
Quiet, gentle activities help reset energy – and give you a breather too.
Final Thoughts
Rainy days might feel long, but with a few simple ideas and the right setup, they can also be calm, connected and surprisingly fun. Soft play sets, ball pits and gentle sensory play make all the difference – and they don’t have to take over your living room.
☔ Discover calm indoor play with Monio soft play »
