You wake up and the weather is all wet. What are you going to do today? Here are four ideas to try when it's raining cats and dogs.

1. Puppet showtime

You can create your very own puppets with items your parents already have around the house. First, you'll need some old socks or lunch-size brown paper bags. Then, get busy decorating them with markers, crayons, glitter, sequins, string, ribbons, yarn, buttons — even dry macaroni! Give your puppets names and funny voices. You might want to think up a special story for them. Maybe one puppet is lost and can't find his way home. Maybe another puppet has superhuman powers. To make your show even better, use a cardboard box as a stage.

2. Build a fort

Ask your parent for some old sheets, blankets, or comforters. Spread them over chairs or other furniture to create a top-secret hideout. Bring a flashlight, a good book to read, and maybe even a snack. And don't forget to think of a secret password!

3. Dress-up time!

Both boys and girls can have fun trying on old clothes. Ask your parent to let you try on old scarves, hats, jewelry, shoes, and clothes. Do you want to be a doctor? You can pretend an old white shirt is a lab coat. Or maybe you see yourself as a movie star. Ask your mom for her old prom dresses or bridesmaid dresses. Don't forget the earrings and high heels!

4. Say thanks

Birthdays and holidays are chances for us to thank people who love us and take good care of us. But it can be a special treat to get a gift or a card on an ordinary day. Think of the people who make you happy and then come up with a way to show them you care. It might be an aunt, uncle, grandmother, neighbor, or babysitter. It could even be your mom or dad! Use your arts and craft supplies to create a special card. Or ask your parent to help you make cookies as a gift for that special someone. You will be delivering sunshine on a rainy day!

Reviewed by: Steven Dowshen, MD
Date reviewed: March 2012