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[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.

[Childcare] Perfect for June! Indoor play ideas to incorporate into childcare (11–20)

Stick-pulling sumo

https://www.tiktok.com/@cocoskip/video/7263409574894374152

Here’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.

Color Play Game

@cocorurueniwa

Today's activity is a color play game! Walk only on the specified color and aim for the goal! Make sure to clearly recognize your own color!#Kokoruru Eniwa#Kokorururu SakuramachiEniwa CityAfter-school day serviceAfter-school day serviceActivityColor Play Game#tiktokvalentine

♪ Tetris – Hiiragi Magnetite

A colorful floor makeover! Here are some play game ideas that use colors.

They’re fun activities that nurture color sense and attention.

Cut five colors of tape into short pieces and stick them on the floor; as children look for and step on each specified color, they can develop their ability to distinguish colors and follow rules.

The game is simple yet helps train reflexes and balance, and it’s perfect for group fun.

Try incorporating it as an activity in your after-school day service.

Ring-Collecting Game

@toiro_efilagroup

Stimulation for the brain starts with making things 💡Nursery teacher / Childcare workerChildcare WorkerKanagawaAfter-school day service#toiro# developmental support (ryōiku)#Indoor Playwork

♪ Original song – toiro After-school Day – toiro After-school Day

Fun to make! Fun to play! Here’s an idea for a game where you collect rings.

You’ll need origami paper in your favorite colors, scissors, and glue.

First, cut the origami paper into long, thin strips and glue the ends to make rings! Using colorful paper in the making process can stimulate a sense of color and help develop fine motor skills.

Once the rings are ready, give each person a pair of chopsticks or a straw, and enjoy a game of collecting the rings! It’s a great way to build concentration.

Signaling Game

A quick pastime for spare moments: the ‘Traffic Light Game’ for older preschoolers/also great for recreation
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.”

Storm Storm Big Storm Game

[Indoor Play] Even MatsuJun was shocked?! Indoor play!!
Storm Storm Big Storm Game

Let’s play using our heads and bodies! Here’s an idea for the Big Storm Game.

Depending on the age group, it’s helpful to prepare visual aids like sample diagrams or origami markers.

Assign one child as the squirrel and two children as the trees.

At the teacher’s cue, “A wolf is coming!” the squirrel moves to a different tree.

At the cue, “A lumberjack is coming!” the trees move to a different squirrel.

At the cue, “A big storm is coming!” everyone moves and pairs up with different friends.

To start, try playing while using the sample diagram or markers as guides!

Copycat game

Let's try it with the teacher! Copycat Game♪
Copycat game

Let’s have fun with body mimicry! Here are some ideas for a copycat game that’s sure to make everyone smile.

While copying the teacher’s movements, strike unique poses like animals or heroes and play together.

You’ll find yourselves laughing and saying, “What is this?!” as you move your bodies.

While playing, kids build flexibility and balance, and the best part is learning through fun—“Can you really do this pose?” You might even discover some unexpected moves!

[Childcare] Perfect for June! Indoor play ideas to incorporate into childcare (21–30)

Indoor game with pool stick rackets

[Improve Your Posture!] Play at Home with a Pool Stick Racket
Indoor game with pool stick rackets

This is a pool noodle racket game that kids and adults can enjoy! First, bend a halved pool noodle into a ring and secure it with tape.

Next, wrap plastic wrap across it in a cross pattern three times, and you’ve got a clear racket! It’s fun to play solo with a balloon, but making another racket to play with a few people sounds great too.

Raising your head and lifting your arms in a “hands up” position is said to help strengthen your back muscles.

Because it’s very light, it’s safe for toddlers to play with.

It’s recommended for both outdoor and indoor play!