Things to do indoors: Easy recipes, craft ideas and indoor games and activities

The UK has just had its hottest ever June, according to the Met Office.

But the same can't be said for July. Since schools broke up for the summer holidays, the weather has been mostly wet and rainy.

Outdoor plans might have been rained off, but don't let the bad weather ruin your day. There's still heaps of fun activities to keep you entertained indoors.

Check out our top 10 things to do to fight rainy-day boredom.

1. Get crafty

There are loads of arts and crafts projects you could have a go at to keep you entertained

• If drawing is your thing, learn how to draw a pandawith Rob Biddulph. He's a children's author, illustrator, and Guinness World Record holder and has a step by step video you can follow.

• How about making a recycled bird feeder? With bits and bobs from around the house, you could be attracting more birds to your garden in no time.

• Or with just a mirror, piece of paper and pencil, why not have a go at a self-portrait?

• And if none of these sound like your thing, there are loads more fun and easy craft ideas for kids out there. You could even think of your own too.

2. Ready... steady... cook!

Can you guess who this pie-portrait is meant to be?

• If arts and crafts aren't really your thing, you could try a baking a pastry portrait instead, like this apple and rhubarb pie lookalike of King Charles III that was entered into a royal baking competition.

• If you're more of a cook than a baker, why not try and make a healthy recipe for your family dinner, like Omari's chickpea curry?

• Or you could visit friends and family with an indoor picnic prepared by you!.

3. Keep fit with an indoor workout

Joe Wicks, aka The Body Coach, kept the nation moving with his home PE lessons throughout lockdown.

• Doing exercise lifts your mood and gives you more energy. Why not follow along with an exercise video to wake you up and get you moving. Check out Joe Wicks' Top Five exercises to do at home.

• Or to really boost the mood, grab your family, put on some tunes and have a boogie together. Have a look at this Family moodbooster if you need some dancing inspiration.

4. Experiment with some DIY science

If you're missing science lessons, we have some fun home experiments for you to try!

• Who doesn't love gooey, gross SLIME. And it's super easy to make from your very own home.

• You could make your own lava art? You just need water, oil salt and some food dye.

5. Make your own den

You could create a cozy den which includes snacks and twinkly lights!

• If camping has been rained off, you could bring the fun to you. Why not build your own den, using pillows, blankets and anything you can find.

6. Get lost in a book

Last year the number of books children read went up by almost a quarter, so join them in picking up a book.

• Whether you're into Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Harry Potter, or Gangsta Granny picking up a book is a fun way to spend a rainy day.

• Have a look at who Newsround readers voted as their favourite authors. You might discover a new book to add to your reading list.

7. Prepare for an epic writing competition

• The BBC's 500 Words writing competition will open in September. This year there are two age categories, 5-7 year-olds and 8-11 year-olds.

• You'll need to get imaginative and write a 500 Word story you'd love to read. And the best part? You won't be judged on spelling, punctuation or grammar.

• The stories will be marked by some of your favourite authors and there'll be heaps of prizes too.

• Take a look at some amazing tips from famous authors here

8. Earn yourself a new Blue Peter Sports Badge

If you're following the Lionesses in the World Cup, this one could be for you.

• A new sports badge for Blue Peter has been designed by football legend Leah Williamson.

• You'll need to try out a new sport three times for at least 10 minutes. Remember to take a picture so you can send it to Blue Peter and let them know who your sporting heroes are too.

9. Give games a go

Board games, word games and online games can be fun rainy day activities for all ages.

• Board games are a great way to pass the time and have fun with the family. They're good for your brain too. Games like Snakes and Ladders can improve maths skills in three to nine year-olds.

• And there are loads of online games you can have a go at too.

10. Get outdoors for some puddle jumping

This may not be an indoor activity, but why not put on a raincoat and some wellies and get outside anyway?

• Failing all of that, getting outside in nature is important for both physical and mental health, whatever the weather. Research from The Wildlife Trust says nature is in fact good for you.

• So with the right waterproof gear you can still head outdoors. Go for a walk or play in your local park or garden.

• You could practice your puddle jumping too. There's even an official puddle jumping competition, so maybe you could be the next winner?

What are you doing to stay busy indoors this summer? Let us know in the comments.