[Childcare] Perfect for June! Indoor play ideas to incorporate into childcare
June brings the rainy season, when outdoor play tends to decrease in childcare settings.
With so many days of unfavorable weather, teachers often struggle because the children can’t play to their hearts’ content.
So, we’ve gathered ideas for indoor activities here! We’ll introduce a variety of games, from ones that get kids moving to quieter activities they can enjoy calmly.
The more play options you have, the more smiles you’ll see from the children! Please use this as a reference so both children and adults can enjoy fun times together.
Children’s creations are treated as “works,” so we refer to them as “seisaku (制作)” in the text.
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[Childcare] Perfect for June! Indoor play ideas to incorporate into childcare (1–10)
Newspaper ball toss

Let’s use everyday newspaper to get moving and play indoors.
First, crumple the newspaper to make balls for a beanbag toss.
You can tape them to keep them ball-shaped, or just crumple them—have the kids help.
Any kind of basket will work as the target.
Put vinyl tape on the floor and set rules like, “Try to throw from behind this line,” to make it a game.
Sometimes, announce a “bonus time” and move the basket closer—the kids will get even more excited!
A toy you can play with: Hopping Frog

How about making a bouncy frog toy that’s perfect for the rainy season? You’ll need two paper cups, construction paper, rubber bands, markers, scissors, double-sided tape, and so on.
Try engaging the kids first by asking questions like, “What animal loves the rain?” and then explain the steps.
The key features are big, bulging eyes and a wide mouth.
As long as you convey these points, let them design the rest freely.
Another nice thing is that this toy can be adapted into various others, like rockets.
Wheat flour clay play

Another popular sensory play activity is flour dough.
It’s made with safe ingredients like flour, oil, water, and food coloring, so enjoy the process of making the dough together with the children.
If any child has a wheat allergy, use rice flour instead.
First, put flour in a bowl and add about half that amount of water, then knead.
Mixing in oil later will make it smoother.
Once it’s ready, first try using it as is—press it to cheeks or the neck to enjoy its unique texture.
After that, using items like spoons, strings, cups, or brushes dipped in water will open up endless ways to play.
[Childcare] Perfect for June! Indoor play ideas to incorporate into childcare (11–20)
Cleaning Eurhythmics

Let’s make use of handkerchiefs and organza fabric! Here are some ideas for “cleaning-themed eurhythmics.” Eurhythmics is an educational method that combines music and movement, and it’s said to be especially effective in early childhood.
This time, let’s play with a cleaning theme through cleaning eurhythmics.
By using handkerchiefs, children can move their hands and arms in time with the music.
A nice benefit is that they can develop a sense of force control and rhythm while having fun.
Using light, soft materials also makes them easier for children to handle!
Playing with plastic raffia (Suzuran tape)

Let’s adapt the ways we play to suit children’s development! Here are some ideas for playing with suzuran tape.
Suzuran tape is a thin plastic tape known for its colorful appearance.
Because the material is light and flexible, you can cut it with scissors, tie it, or weave it, allowing for all kinds of creative variations and uses in different games.
This time, let’s try making a suzuran tape curtain, a suzuran tape “bath,” and suzuran tape pom-poms.
It sounds like these activities will spark excitement and fun.
Signaling Game

It’s also great for a quick play during small breaks! Here’s an idea for a traffic light game.
Traffic lights are important indicators for learning traffic rules.
When crossing roads where cars and bicycles are moving, they play a crucial role in keeping yourself safe.
This time, let’s use the colors of the traffic light to play a game.
Move forward on “green,” step back on “yellow,” and stop on “red.” Through these simple rules, children can get a feel for the basic rules of “waiting” and “moving.”
Stick-pulling sumo
https://www.tiktok.com/@cocoskip/video/7263409574894374152Here’s an idea for a sumo-style game using a stick.
You’ll need a pool cue, a mat, and a platform.
It’s a fun game that builds strength and balance! Two players hold a single pool cue and pull against each other, trying to either make the opponent step off the platform or let go of the stick.
It also helps develop patience through focused, physical competition.
Since the game starts with the mat and platform setup, it’s a great activity for after-school day services.
Kids can have fun while boosting their fitness and competitive spirit.



