School is out, the kids are home and full of energy, but it is just so hot outside! When I nannied in the summer, I tried to get the kids outside in the morning before it got too hot, and then switch to indoor activities or water activities such as swimming or splash pads, sprinklers, or slip and slides in the afternoons. This worked well, but we have some additional activities that will keep the kids engaged while keeping them cool outside.

The first two activities are similar, but designed for different age groups. Both can be enhanced if you build a themed day or week around them. Some themes that would work well with this are polar animals, ocean animals, dinosaurs, boats and other sea vessels, or any other theme the child in your care is interested in. You can read books about the topic and plan other activities on this theme. 

Ice Block Excavation 

Preschoolers and elementary school aged children tend to enjoy this activity. To start, you will need several plastic toys, such as a variety of plastic toy ocean animals or any similar small plastic toys, and one large or several small containers. Place the toys in the containers and fill with water. Place the container(s) in the freezer and freeze overnight. Once they are frozen, place them in a plastic bin or on a cookie sheet and take it outside. The child can “excavate” using a variety of tools of your choice, such as plastic toy hammers, squirt toys filled with warm water, toothbrushes, etc. They will have fun meeting the challenge of getting the toys out and can play with them once they are freed. This activity has the side benefit of building a child’s fine motor skills while having fun!

Ice/Water Table: 

Toddlers will love this activity using the same plastic toys mentioned above. First, place one small plastic toy (such as plastic toy ocean animals) in each space of an empty ice tray. Part of each toy will likely be sticking out or each ice cube tray space, and that is okay. Fill the tray with water and freeze overnight. Place these, and plain ice cubes in a sensory bin and fill halfway with water. Let the child play and explore the sensory feeling of the cool water and cold ice on a hot summer day. Note: It is crucial that any child is supervised at all times around any body of water, including a water play table. Please monitor the child in your care vigilantly during this activity. 

For more Summer Fun Activities, check out our FREE Webinar titled Summer Fun Guide!