Do you remember going to friends' houses when you were little? Remember how great all their toys seemed? That's because you didn't have them at home for use every day.
You can apply the same principles to rainy day activities by keeping a “rainy day box” that will only be opened if the weather is too bad to play outside. You just need to decorate a cardboard box with wrapping paper and label it.
The things inside don't have to be expensive, but should be slightly different to the rest of your child's toys. For instance, there could be “special” crayons that are glittery or fluorescent colors. Some bright crayons and dark paper make a craft activity.
Since the toys are “different” from normal ones, they do not have to be the latest fad. In fact they shouldn't be. Check discount shops for sticker books, craft items and toys. You can find things like jacks and non-brand board games very cheaply. You could also consider indoor bubbles.
Be careful using cuddly toys as your child could become too attached and be very upset when the box is put away.
For under $15 you can have a well stocked box that turns boring rainy days into something exciting. And it's far more constructive than playStations!
Best Wishes,
Josey