Summer activités for toddlers

Posted by Natasha on May 28th, 2019

People often worry about keeping their older children entertained while school is out, but toddlers appreciate special summer activities, too! This article will help give you ideas for fun toddler activities for summer to keep your little one happy and engaged all season long.

Most toddlers love being outside and summer is the perfect time to let them explore as long as you follow a few guidelines. Young children have more sensitive skin than adults, so it’s important to protect them with sunscreen and/or clothing with built in sun protection. A long sleeve sun shirt paired with a wide brimmed hat offer great protection for playing in the yard or at the park without worrying about sunscreen messes. Children also need to wear bug repellant when they’re in buggy areas to prevent bites. Not only do many biting insects have the potential to carry disease, but their bites can also become infected if children scratch. To help keep your little one safe, wash off after coming inside to remove any sunscreen or bug spray now that it’s unnecessary.

There are plenty of fun things to do outside, but your child will probably enjoy the simple act of exploring outdoors. Allow them to dig in the dirt and stomp in some puddles. Better yet, intentionally let them play in the sprinklers or go outside in the rain! Warm summer temperatures mean they won’t get cold. 

Other water activities are perfect for summer, too. You don’t have to buy a special water table - even a plastic bin or dishpan with water and some toys can be a real hit with a toddler. You don’t have to run out and purchase specific pool or bath toys for water fun. Give your child plastic cups to practice pouring with or a sponge to practice soaking up water and squeezing it out. Spoons and ladles also make fun water toys!

If you have an older toddler, you can also go on an outdoor treasure hunt. Get a basket, then allow your child to gather “treasures” in it. You can ask them to find specific things, like a smooth rock or rough piece of bark, or just let them pick up whatever catches their eye.

If you’re feeling adventurous, set up a backyard camp site and spend an evening outside. If your toddler wants to come inside in the middle of the night, no problem! Just scoop them up and head on in. If they love it and you feel ready for more, consider a camping trip to a local campground. Camping with a toddler can be a lot fo fun when you prepare. This toddler camping checklist will make sure you have all the essentials!

When you’re ready to come back inside, relaxing with a book can be the perfect way to cool down. To fit the summer theme, consider an ocean book for toddlers or a story about fish. Toddlers understand so much more than they can express with their developing language skills. You may be surprised what your child will point out and recognize on your next beach trip after reading up about the sea!

When you need a bit of a break, look for local free activities for toddlers. Many parks, bookstores, and libraries hold summer story time programs. Your child can interact with other toddlers while someone else does the reading!

These summer activities will help keep your little one exploring and busy all summer long!