7 Books to Encourage Outside Adventures In All Kinds of Weather

Mice Skating, by Annie Silvestro and Teagan White
Lucy isn’t like most field mice. Rather than burrow down during the winter, she yearns to be outside. The problem is, none of the other mice want to join her. She tries to have fun on her own outside—too lonely. She tries to bring the winter fun inside—too wet. Finally she devises a special project to persuade her friends to take part. The sweet message and “cheesy” puns will make readers smile, and convince even the most curmudgeonly to gather some playmates and get out on the ice.

On a Magical Do-Nothing Day, by Beatrice Alemagna
This story is a not-so-subtle testament to the possibilities for exploration when kids put away their electronics. When a young girl begrudgingly heads outside on a wet day at her mother’s behest, she’s sure there is “nothing to do.” Soon, though, she surprises herself with the treasures she finds in the damp forest. Read this as a reminder that nothing with batteries or a screen can replace the magic of the outdoors.

When the Wind Blows, by Linda Booth Sweeny and Jana Christy
It’s one cool grandma that encourages her grandson to bundle up and head outside on a blustery, chilly day. The pair flies kites, chase the gusts and even visits the beach, giggling all the while. When a thunderstorm threatens, they zoom home with just as much delight to warm up and relive their adventures. If your kids complain about playing outside in the wind, provide this book as an example of how Grandma always knows best.

Singing in the Rain, illustrated by Tim Hopgood and based on the song by Arthur Free and Nacio Herb Brown
Sometimes all you need to get motivated to go out in wet weather is the cheerfulness of a bright raincoat and rubber boots—and perhaps a catchy tune to hum. Based on the lyrics of the classic song, this book is full of colorful, multicultural illustrations to make you smile. Read it, and then head outside on a splashy adventure.

Rainbow Stew, by Cathryn Falwell
At first, a trio of siblings worry rain will put a damper on their visit to Grandpa’s house. He has other plans, though, and shows them that a wet day can be the best kind. Lively rhymes describe how they play in the garden, harvest vegetables, and then tumble inside to dry off and make soup together. A book that encourages kids to play outside and eat their veggies is a double win, for sure.

Ladybug Girl, by David Soman and Jacky Davis
There are now numerous titles about spunky little Lulu, but our favorite is her original story. When her older brother ditches her for his friends, Lulu heads out with her faithful dog, Bingo. She’s got her spotted boots, so puddles aren’t a problem. The wind doesn’t matter either—swirling leaves are perfect for catching, chasing and yelling into. The moral of the story is: be like Ladybug Girl and get on out there.

Fairy Houses All Year: A Four-Season Handbook, by Liza Gardner Walsh 
If your family hasn’t joined the fairy house-building craze yet, you’re missing out on a creative way to enjoy the outdoors. This author has a number of handbooks that discuss in great detail the finer points of fairy house construction, complete with quotes from experienced “builders” and close up photographs. This particular title gives plenty of ideas for enjoying fairy house building no matter the weather. Just as chefs revise their menus throughout the year to make use of seasonal produce, simply adapt your materials to the time of year and get building!