I know it feels hard to believe, but summer is coming up quickly, and many of us are looking for ways to keep our kids outside while keeping them cool! Water play is one of the funniest and easiest ways to make that happen. It can also keep the attention of your little one a little longer than the average activity because there are so many different ways to enjoy the water.

Kiddy Pool

One of the most straightforward ways to enjoy some water play is a plastic kiddy pool. These can be found so many places including the family dollar store, grocery store, or even hardware store. They usually aren’t very expensive but are kind of a one-trick pony. Adding accessories like a sprinkler or some scooping and dumping containers can make it more fun!.

Spray Bottles

A spray bottle can be a favorite toy of toddlerhood! Fill any plastic spray bottle with water and let your little ones “wash” the back door, the porch columns, or even Mama’s feet if you’re feeling hot.

Paint Brushes

Any assortment of paintbrushes or foam brushes can be a fun addition to water play. Just fill a large container or bucket with water and “paint” on the sidewalk or back porch. Watch how quickly the sun dries up the water, making room for a new masterpiece! Handprint and footprint art is also always a hit.

Soap Bubbles

Adding a small amount of dish soap to your pool or water table before adding the water can take it from drab to fabulous in a few seconds. The bubbles are always fun and exciting. If you’re feeling ingenious, you can even count this water play as bath time!

Water Table

A water table is a nice alternative to a whole kiddy pool. They come in all shapes and sizes and can be easily moved to a shaded area or farther into the yard if it makes it more convenient for the parents. A double-sided water table can allow for games with muddy animals or working trucks if you add dirt or sand to one side and water to the other.

Containers or Buckets

Never underestimate the power and fun of variously sized containers of water. Smaller containers can be used for scooping and moving water from one container to the other. One container can hold bubbles while the other holds ice cubes or even colored water. The possibilities are limited only by the imagination.

Ice Cubes

Adding ice cubes to your water table or containers can be a fun sensory play for your baby or toddler. It offers exposure to temperature and texture. Make sure they are appropriately sized if your child is in the habit of putting things in their mouth as you don’t want them to choke.

Bonus:

Getting your little one involved in outside chores like watering your plants not only entertains but also teaches important life skills and keeps the plants happy! It’s like a win-win-win.

The most important thing to remember is that playing outside is the perfect time to embrace imperfections and not stress any of the mess. Babies can be washed. Floors can be cleaned. Containers can be gathered up no matter how far they are scattered. Enjoy the summer outdoor with your kids!