Summer is a time for backyard play and road trips. Even a heatwave can’t scorch the fun! Engaging in creative, parent-tested activities keeps kids cool and entertained while strengthening the family bond. Explore fun ideas to transform a hot, oppressive summer into a season of shared adventures! Make memories as a family and discover new ways to stay cool when temperatures soar.
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Choose Light and Airy Summer Clothing
A summer heatwave calls for soft and breathable kids’ clothing. Eco-friendly bamboo fabric feels lightweight and gentle on the skin, making it perfect for cooling off the little ones. Baby girl rompers are a summer essential with sleeveless designs and vibrant seasonal patterns. The comfort and style of these outfits will keep your babies and toddlers comfortable and stylish in a tropical paradise.
Bamboo dresses and baby girl bodysuits are cute, versatile summer looks for little girls. Let her wear them alone or with shorts for an adorable outfit. If you’re searching for summer clothes for boys, try short-sleeved baby boy rompers! A polo shorty style with a relaxed fit will keep his look comfy and fashionable.
Bodysuits are a must-have for baby boys and toddlers, especially during a heatwave. Your little guy will love the feel of a lightweight shirt or tank top. Make him look summer-ready with overalls or cozy pull-on shorts.
Create a Shady Backyard Oasis
Now that your kids feel comfy and cool in their summer clothing, it’s time to create your backyard oasis. Find a spot with plenty of shade, such as a patio, deck or a cool spot under a tree. This shaded area can be a fun picnic site or a relaxing spot to watch a summer movie.
Build your own summertime fort featuring lightweight cotton or bamboo bed sheets as walls or windows. Parents can make a blanket fort or tent fort using a frame of patio chairs, a rope with clothespins, or an extra set of curtain rods. To make a table fort, drape sheets over a patio or folding table. Make the floor soft with outdoor pillows or rugs. Add a few fans for airflow. Now you have a place to make-believe, even when it’s hot!
Make Cool Summer Treats
A tasty frozen treat will keep kids cool and happy. Make DIY ice pops before you venture outside to help nourish your kids while they cool off. These no-bake, healthier treats are made with frozen fruit and juice. Go dairy-free with milk substitutes or pair fruit flavors like pineapple and lime for a delicious, tropical flavor.
Recipes for homemade popsicles can feature your child’s favorite fruit, like strawberries or mango. Other tasty popsicle flavors include grape or blueberry. You can shop for silicone molds at the store or make your own molds out of paper or plastic cups. If your kids crave something creamier, make your own ice cream or frozen yogurt.
Play Outdoor Water Games
It’s time to lather up with sunscreen because outdoor water games will keep your kids entertained for hours. Set up a backyard sprinkler or fill up a bucket of water balloons. Water limbo adds a twist to a favorite party game. Parents spray their garden hose horizontally to create a wet limbo bar while kids can test their flexibility and balance.
A summer sponge bucket toss is a fun way to showcase your child’s throwing skills! Grab soft water balls made for the pool. You can even use household sponges. Fill a couple of buckets with water and then have the kids throw as many balls or sponges as they can into the bucket before time is up. Play upbeat summer music to make activities even more exciting!
Design a Living Room Obstacle Course
Sometimes, the heat is just too oppressive to be outside. An indoor obstacle course is the perfect activity for children of all ages. It’s easy to design one with objects you already have in your home. First, pick an open room in your house, like your living room or family room. Next, set aside large furniture and decorative items.
Now, it’s time to design an appropriate course! Little ones of all ages love to climb cushions, hop across pillows, and traverse through tunnels. Create a soft, safe journey complete with a couple of challenges. Change course whenever you need to make things more interesting!
Explore a Children’s Museum
Are you ready for a field trip? A children’s museum is an excellent place to learn and explore. Some kids’ museums have free admission for babies or reduced rates for toddlers. Best of all, you can enjoy hands-on learning in the comfort of cool air conditioning.
Let your little ones explore the wonders of space or the joy of animals. Some museums have crafts or storytime activities to occupy children beyond the exhibits. When it’s time for lunch, check if the museum has a café or spot to enjoy a bagged lunch. Some sites have large food courts or outdoor covered areas for having a meal before heading back home.
Visit an Indoor Playground
Indoor playgrounds are a great place to let off steam in the summer heat. They are inside, have air conditioning, and keep kids contained. Let siblings explore together or organize a fun playdate with friends. Some playgrounds have special sensory events or cafes featuring tasty snacks for kids and iced coffee for the adults.
Making Memories During the Heat of Summer
The summer sun is often warm and inviting, but some weeks send temperatures soaring to an uncomfortable place. When you’re in a heatwave, choose an activity that keeps kids cool and avoids sunburn or overheating. The right clothing can make children feel better when it’s warm outside. You can even choose snacks and treats that cool them off when the weather is uncomfortable. Hands-on activities and playing with friends will keep them entertained and active all season.
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