As I’m sure many moms can attest, toddlers are busy. They love being on the go and are constantly looking for new ways to play and ways to be entertained. But if you’re starting to get a bit stir crazy, mama, I feel you! I’ve got 10 summer activities for toddlers that will get you out and about. And hopefully you’re little one will be tired enough for a nap. But I make no promises on the nap part… 😉
1. Plan a picnic – Simple, yes. But my toddler LIVES for picnics! We love heading to the park early before it gets too hot. We pack a picnic, and my daughter gets the biggest kick out of eating at picnic tables or spreading out a blanket in the shade.
2. Make homemade ice cream – Going out for a cone during the summertime is pretty much a must. But what’s even more fun? DIY-ing your own ice cream in a bag at home! Turn it into a fun family activity. The reward is well worth it! 😉
3. Head to the splash pad – If you don’t have access to a pool, a splash pad is a great option that you probably have in your area! (Just google some parks near you.) We pack a bucket and a couple water toys, and my toddler has a blast running around! Don’t have a splash pad near you? Go old school with a sprinkler in your front yard!
4. Have a bubble party – What is it about bubbles? They are so fun for toddlers (and adults too)! You can get inexpensive bubble wands at Target or even the dollar store. Lately, my little one has been loving this bubble gun too. It makes so many bubbles! If you’re feeling crafty, make giant homemade bubbles!
5. Chalk it up – Get artistic on the sidewalk with your favorite sidewalk chalk. (I love the giant eggs from the dollar store. They’re perfect for little hands!) I’ve also been meaning to try this DIY sidewalk chalk paint recipe! It washes off with water just like sidewalk chalk!
6. Play in the sand – You don’t have to head to the beach or even have a large sandbox to let your kids get sandy. Get a medium-sized plastic bin, fill it with sand, and let your kids go to town with a few toys. Even a few measuring cups and toy cars will be enough to entertain them!
7. Sensory play with water – Similarly to your mini sandbox, you can also create a fun water play station! Fill a bin or two with water. Throw in some water-friendly toys, some small cups, a few measuring spoons or measuring cups and prepare for the fun!
8. Make a homemade bird feeder – Did you ever make a toilet roll bird feeder as a kid? This craft is so easy, and you probably have all the ingredients (well minus the bird seed)! Check out how to DIY it here and you’ll be bird watching with your littles in no time!
9. Create an outdoor scavenger hunt – This idea is so, so simple and requires little to no preparation. You can take a piece of paper, create a grid on it, and color in the squares with different colors. (Think: a square for red, orange, blue, pink, etc.) Then take it outside. Have your toddler look around and find things that match the colors! If they’re a bit older, you can just go through the colors with a paper guide! Find a pink flower? Collect it! Find a gray rock? Add it to your collection! Once you’re done, you’ll have items of all different colors!
10. Build a fort – This was one of my favorite activities as a child. For those days that are super-hot, all you need is a few sheets or blankets and a little bit of space. Use couches or chairs or whatever furniture you have around to create a little cave for you and your little one! Then have some quiet time inside reading, coloring, or maybe even napping. Napping, hah. Who am I kidding?!
Want more toddler activity ideas? Be sure to check out these indoor activities for toddlers!
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