Kid-friendly ways to stay cool and have fun
IT’S BEEN a hot summer so far. Here are a couple of tips for keeping the kids entertained and cool. We are thankful to have window AC units for our bedrooms, which makes sleeping easier during the hot summer. But we still have the day to get through, and there have been some hot ones lately! While our children seem to deal with the heat better than us adults, it can still get uncomfortable for them. With that in mind, here are seven ways to have a fun and cool summer with your kids.
WOODED PARKS
One of our favourite things to do on the hottest of days is to pack up a simple picnic lunch and plenty of bottled water and head to a nearby wooded park that is set up on a hill. With the lush undergrowth and the trees overhead, this park is significantly cooler than our house. We lay out a blanket, play on the playground, and read books. It makes for a relaxing afternoon.
SPLASH PADS
Splash pads, or interactive water fountains make a great free activity that keeps everyone in the family cool. A quick Google search can help you locate ones near you.
POOLS
And of course, what is summer without going to the pool? You can also do a simple pool set-up in the backyard with some water toys.
POPSICLES
When the sun is blistering, there’s nothing like pulling out ice-cold homemade popsicles from the freezer. Popsicles are so easy to make, and they take the kids a while to eat! And there are so many fun options to make, too.
MORNING ACTIVITIES
Because the afternoons can be so hot, we take advantage of the cooler mornings to do outside activities, such as taking a walk to a nearby park or store, going to the playground, or sending the kids out to play in the backyard.
WATER GUN OR WATER BALLOON FIGHTS
Don’t forget about water guns and water balloons! Battling it out with water balloons and water guns can be a really fun way to get your kids moving and for them to stay cool! Plus, if you get involved, it’s a fun way for you to connect with your kids and get some exercise as well.