When summer finally arrives, many parents start worrying about how they will keep their toddlers and preschoolers entertained and happy during the hot days. It’s not difficult to keep young children entertained and happy; a little planning goes a long way to having a successful and fun summer filled with lots of memories.
Here are just a few ideas to keep mom, dad and children happy this summer. These suggestions can be fun for the whole family, not just the youngest children. Fun summer activities can be enjoyable for everyone involved.
Make and use sidewalk chalk to create one-of-a-kind pieces of art.
Grab an old paintbrush and a bucket of water and let the kids paint.
Set up an obstacle course complete with tricycles and scooters.
Build a blanket fort and create a secret hideaway.
Cool off with some dirt and water by making mud pies.
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Sidewalk chalk
Making your own sidewalk chalk is pretty simple and the kids will love helping, especially when they get to draw with the completed project. There are various recipes to be found on the internet, but Martha Stewart’s is likely the best one. Her’s calls for tempera paint, water, Plaster of Paris and various spoons and containers. Her recipe can be found here: http://www.marthastewart.com/268868/how-to-make-sidewalk-chalk
Paint with water
Put the kids to work painting the fence, side of the garage or anything else. All they need is a few old paint brushes, a bucket of water and they are ready to go. If it’s especially warm, they will enjoy seeing the “paint” dry rather quickly.
Little kid obstacle course
Set up a simple obstacle course in the driveway or backyard. Use large cardboard boxes as tunnels, jump ropes to make paths and laundry baskets as barrels the kids have to run around. Let your imagination go wild and make it as short or long as you like.
Blanket fort
Whether built in the family room, backyard or on the patio, nothing can spark a kid’s imagination like a blanket fort. Pack a picnic lunch, provide a flashlight and some books and let the kids while away the afternoon pretending they are on some grand adventure.
Mud pies
If you don’t want them digging up your flower bed or vegetable garden, you may have to provide a container for the dirt, but what a glorious way to spend a hot day! Dirt and a little water is what kids live for. Let them make mud pies with flower and pebble decorations or let them wallow around in it like farm animals. Just make sure to hose them off well before they come inside.
