The weather was (finally!) great, and it was refreshing to be able to spend a long time outdoors without the unbearable cold. Thankfully, we still have a warm summer to enjoy with our kids. Sometimes it feels like we are doing the same activities with our kids every day, and not only are they tired of it, but so are we. If you’re looking to mix up your routine with your kids, try some new attractions and activities this summer. You don’t need to do complicated crafts or complicated recipes to win Parent of the Year, keep things simple and help your kids learn to enjoy the beauty and simplicity of nature and the outdoors. If you need a little help, here are some summer activity ideas for toddlers. What is your favorite thing to do with your kids in the summer? Let us know in the comments!
8 summer activities for toddlers
Book a summer camp
Kids love summer camp. They can spend time with other children, make new friends, and do activities they enjoy, such as swimming, art, play and creativity. Not only do kids love summer camp, but adults too…you’ll have a morning, afternoon, or a full day. If your child is too young to attend summer camp, many summer camps offer “Mom and Me” activities that reduce stress in a few hours and allow you and your child to do something creative together without having to plan everything!
Swimming and water fun
I remember swimming in our local pond for hours as a kid. Diving from the pier, collecting silt from the bottom, catching crayfish, building sandcastles with friends – those days are definitely the best. Swimming is a great activity for toddlers and parents because you can both enjoy it to the fullest. Meet up with friends, bring lunch and snacks, and post for the day. Don’t forget floats, sunscreen, bug spray and hats.
Change it up by trying different beaches, pools, ponds, lakes, rivers and streams. Your child will love exploring all the different environments and fun play opportunities.
Some of our favorite local Vermont Upper Valley attractions: Kedron Pond, Woodstock Recreation Centre Pool, Silver Lake, Otaukechi River – Woodstock city centre has some “sand” river inlets.
Go to a museum or library
Whether it’s sunny or rainy, the Children’s Museum is a great choice. The exhibits are designed to excite young children and they will enjoy being able to learn and interact with models, animals, machines and all kinds of fun things!
Billings Farm and Museum and Montgomery County Museum is our favorite local museum for toddlers. The back of the Mount County Museum has a great water feature perfect for a warm day and lots of exciting indoor exhibits perfect for a rainy day. We love bubbles.
The library is a great choice for rainy or hot days when you crave shade and air conditioning. Your kids will love the new toys and endless selection of books. Check out some books to enjoy at home for the next week.
trip to the park
Kids love the freedom and choice of playgrounds! We are fortunate to have many local park and playground options in Vermont. Another great thing about a playground is that it offers a lot of entertainment and gives you the opportunity to sit and relax while your kids play. Invite a friend who has kids of similar age and they might even entertain each other (for a while anyway).
go for a walk or hike
Walking and hiking can be challenging for young children, but I think these are important and wonderful opportunities to get out of the woods, explore and experience nature. Make it fun by going on a scavenger hunt to discover different plants and animals and bring treats to avoid crashes. You can give your child a chance to walk on their own, or have a spare stroller/backpack if they get tired.
Pack a picnic
A picnic is a fun way to make your little one feel like a special meal. Pack shredded fruit, vegetables, cheese, crackers, and other snacks that are on-the-go. Choose a scenic spot to enjoy your picnic. Maybe a short walk or hike to get there. Bring a backpack/basket with blankets, cutlery, and maybe a fun game. You can also invite friends or family to join at any time.
Schedule a play date
Play dating may seem daunting, but it can actually make a caregiver’s life so much easier! If your toddler has a friend with whom they play well (which won’t turn your life into a nightmare), it can provide some entertainment, and you might even have a chance to give yourself a little time. Bonus, your little one will be very grateful and happy to have a great day with friends.
Set up backyard activities
Let’s face it, sometimes leaving home feels hard or not an option. You may have things to do around the house, or you may not want to load up your car somewhere. Staying at home can also be fun! Use your outdoor space for summer activities so you can stay home and keep your kids entertained.Bubbles are always welcome and bubble machine Make life easier. Seriously, these things are game-changers for hours of entertainment.a small Sandbox is another great activity that toddlers can do on their own.for hot days a children’s pool Great for everyone and a great way to stay cool.if you don’t have much space groundwater level is a good choice.
More resources for toddler-friendly activities
Toddler Activities Favorite Instagram Accounts: busy toddler, Happy toddler playtime& Simplify the game
Toddler Games, Activities and Gear
Keeping a toddler entertained can be exhausting. Make it easier for yourself by choosing an activity that provides (most of) entertainment. Go swimming with friends, let them play in the sandbox, or turn on the bubble machine and maybe give yourself some time!
What activities do you like to do with your kids during summer vacation? Any tips for getting through those hectic toddler stages and staying sane? Share in the comments!
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