Keep a toy reserve. This is one of the best tricks I have in my repertoire. I have special toys in my daycare closet that we only bring out on those days we can’t follow our normal routine. Rainy days are great for pulling those little rabbits out of your hat. The preschoolers who are with you all day will be so excited to see something new and different, and if you have school age kids with you due to spring vacation, they will think you’ve done something special just for them. Some toys in my closet that are a big hit when the day is a big bummer are puppets for a puppet show, big wooden building blocks (different from the blocks they normally have), games like bingo and ring toss, floor puzzles, and the all mighty playdough.
Use the school age kids to your advantage. All too often when school is out and the older kids are at daycare all day, their energy can be overwhelming to the provider and the preschoolers. Put them in charge. Let your older kids plan an activity for the younger ones, read a book or lead a song at circle time, help the preschoolers with a simple craft or coloring page, or lead them through a puzzle that might otherwise be a little over their heads. Have them help set the table at lunch. You will be amazed at how helpful that energy can be when it is directed constructively. My school-aged kids love to make up a puppet show and present it to the little ones. They all have a wonderful time doing it.
Try some active but safe indoor activities. We love to put on some children’s music and dance. Parachute play is a favorite here. We have a small one with six handles and a tape to go with it that puts you through different moves with the parachute put to adorable music. Build a tent with blankets and kitchen chairs.
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