Beat the Heat: Cool Summer Hacks for Moms with Kids of All Ages

Beat the Heat: Cool Summer Hacks for Moms with Kids of All Ages

Hey there, Super Mom! Summer has been shall we say SUMMER-ING. Which means hot as H-E-double hockey sticks!! While we love soaking up all of this sun, it can be a bit of a challenge keeping the kiddos cool and happy with this record setting heat we're experiencing on the regular. That's why we've put together a few sizzling (or should I say chilling?) summer hacks. These tips are fun, budget-friendly, and perfect for every family!

Little to No Cost Water Play Ideas:

Sprinkler Fun Affordable and guaranteed to bring smiles, running through the sprinkler is a timeless summer joy. This is straight out of 1991. And one of my favorite things to do as a kid. Parents have been talking about going back to simpler times, well this is it. Set up a sprinkler in the yard and watch the magic happen!
    Splash Pad Adventures We live in Arizona and so I have to admit we might be a little spoiled when it comes to splash pads. We have so many to choose from really like Gilbert Regional Park, Westage Fountain Park, or Tempe Marketplace to name a few. But I've noticed (due to climate change) and the fact that places are staying warmer for longer, splash pads have become a thing. So head to google and look up your local parks. Many outdoor shopping centers are setting up free splash pads—perfect for a cooling escape - or at a slight fee. You might also find small water parks like in Scottsdale, Eldorado Park. This place has a full-size pool with diving board and slides, plus a splash, shallow area for babies and toddlers -- we met some friends here and it was $7 for the two of us. $3 for each kid, $4 for adults. Pack a picnic and make it an afternoon outing!

      DIY Water Tables Fill shallow bins or containers with water and toss in some toys. Instant entertainment for toddlers and preschoolers! Here's some Pinterest ideas for how to set one up. Or if you're not feeling crafty Little Tikes has many varieties of water tables as well if you want to just buy one.

      Creating Shady Spots

      Pop-Up Tents These are perfect for creating a shady play area in the yard or at the beach. You probably already have a tent a home, if not grab an umbrella and get creative. 


      Natural Tree Shade Lay out a picnic blanket under a tree for a natural, cool play spot. Nature’s air conditioning! 

        Cool Snacks to the Rescue

        Frozen Fruit Pops Blend your favorite fruits, freeze in molds, and voila! A healthy, refreshing treat that’s a hit with all ages. For those extra hot days rehydrate and feel better fast with some Electrolyte freezer pops

         

         

        Ice Cube Painting Freeze colored water in ice cube trays, and let the kids “paint” as the ice melts. It’s messy, but oh-so-fun and keeps them cool! You can also freeze small dinosaur figurines in water balloons and make a 'treasure hunt'. Kids can use water bottles, salt and small tools to uncover their treasure. 

         

        Make it an Indoor Thing:

        DIY Forts Create a cozy fort with blankets and pillows. A cool hideaway for reading, napping, or imaginative play.


        Cooling Towels Dampen small towels, freeze them, and let the kids drape them around their necks. Instant cool down!

         

        Wanting More and Willing to Spend:

        Small Pool Fun An inflatable pool in the yard can be a lifesaver. Supervised splashing equals hours of fun and cooling off.

        Water Balloons A classic water balloon fight is perfect for older kids. Just make sure to pick up the pieces afterward! Trying to make more sustainable choices - try these reusable water balloons

        Backyard Playsets Consider playsets like these with built-in water features—slides into small pools, water cannons, you name it! If simply running through the sprinkler doesn't get them going try one of these sprinkler toys that do a variety of things.

        Take for example this cute sprinkler batting toy that acts as a t-ball. It shoots the ball in the air and you can adjust the height by water pressure. Or this unique shark water sprinkler with a basketball hoop.

        Splash Parks & Pools: If it fits the budget, invest in a membership to a local pool or splash park. Regular water play days are a great way to keep cool.

        Handy Cooling Gadgets

        Portable Fans Clip-on fans for strollers or portable handheld ones can make a big difference, especially for babies and toddlers. These mini fans fit around pretty much anything with a handle. 


        Cooling Mats Originally designed for pets, these cooling mats are great for kids to sit or lie on during outdoor play.

          Clothing Matters

           

          UV-Protective Clothing Lightweight, UV-protective clothing keeps your little ones cool and safe from the sun’s rays. 

          Sun Hats & Sunglasses Stylish and functional, these keep the sun at bay and look adorable too!

            General Tips for Keeping Cool

            • Stay Hydrated: Encourage kids to drink water regularly. Fun water bottles can make this more appealing. Yeti makes a great version for kids check it out here.
            • Timing is Everything: Whatever you're doing, plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler.
            • Sunscreen, Always: Protect those precious little faces with sunscreen, even on cloudy days. We love this brand because its organic, mineral free, safe for the reef and great for all ages Badger Mineral-Free Sunscreen

            Summer can be a blast with the right mix of activities and hacks. These tips will keep your little ones cool, happy, and entertained all season long. Happy summer, Super Mom!


            For more fun and helpful tips, follow Mr. B's Baby Bumper and stay cool out there! #SummerHacks #MomLife #BeatTheHeat #SummerFun #CoolKids

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