10 Fun Summer Activities Your Toddler Will Love

It’s that time of year again! You have crawled yourself out of that seasonal depression winter brings, and you’re now feeling the sunshine on your face every day. But you’re not the only one itching to be outside in the summer breeze. Your child is waiting for those fun summer activities after being trapped in the house for months, and you have to come up with them.

I’m from Michigan and we have terribly cold winters here.. that last for about S months (no joke)

But, I know some of you experience nice and sunny weather all year round.

*Cries in Midwest*

Well, no matter the state you’re in – Summer is here.

If you’re a new mom like me you’re looking for some ideas to keep your baby entertained this season.

My son is heading into the toddler stage – he has been crawling for a month and this boy is on the MOVE. He’s not slowing down anytime soon. I need to know how to keep him engaged, and entertained. And, you’re probably here because you need to figure out how to do the same thing.

I got you, girl. We’re in this together.

There are many fun and educational activities that toddlers can enjoy during the summer. Some ideas include going to the park, going for nature walks, having picnics, reading books, and attending outdoor music or story-time events.

~ It’s important to also keep safety in mind and provide plenty of sunscreen and hydration while you’re having fun in the sun!

Next time you’re looking for something to do with your kiddos give one of these activities a try!

Water play: Set up a kiddie pool, sprinkler, or water table for your toddler to splash around in

My best friends got this water table for their son, and I think it’s a great way to keep older toddlers engaged. For children younger than a year I would recommend a splash pad so they can be entertained whether they’re crawling or walking.

Nature walks: Take a stroll around a park or nature trail and point out different plants and animals to your toddler

Children love exploring, especially when they’re very young. Everything is new in their eyes, so keeping them interested outside isn’t so hard. The great outdoors is a wonderful and natural teaching tool that you can take advantage of every day.

Picnics: Pack a lunch and head to a park or other outdoor spot for a fun picnic

If you havent had a snack/meal outside on a blanket make it a point to do so this season.

Let your child run, play, and explore their surroundings – something as simple as eating outside on a blanket can positively impact their day and mood.

Plus, its a peak summer experience (just don’t forget bug spray!)

Outdoor art: Set up an easel or chalkboard outside and let your toddler get creative with painting or drawing

Doing this outdoors is important. You want your child to have fun without stressing over the mess they’re making. You can even paint beside them.

Children love when adults join in on the fun instead of watching from the sideline. And, who doesn’t love to paint?

Playdates: Schedule playdates with other children to keep your little one social and engaged

I know I’m not the only one who thinks toddlers hanging out is the cutest thing ever. But, on top of that it Is extremely beneficial to their development. They begin to understand social cues, how to interact with other young children, and create connections that are engaging and stimulating.

Whether they are an only child or have siblings, it’s important to interact with people outside of your household for extra opportunities to learn and grow.

Berry picking: Take your toddler to a local farm to pick berries and enjoy some fresh air

You’d be surprised at the amount of berry picking locations near you. I googled it myself and found 5 within 30 minutes of my house!

This is definitely not the most common activity, but kids love it. it might be because they enjoy being little helpers, and this is an activity that isn’t hard for them to participate in.

It’s a very calm, and leisure option that even your child might mellow out to.

Beach day: Spend a day at the beach building sandcastles, collecting seashells, and playing in the waves

Beach days are super fun, I’ve never seen a child run out of ideas. Build a sandcastle, help them fly a kite, have them eat their snack while you all watch the waves. Trust me, after a long day of this outdoor activity they will be asleep in their car seat almost immediately.

It’s magic.

Outdoor concerts or movies: Look for free outdoor concerts or movies in your area

Changing their environment for things they are used to doing at home adds that excitement factor. Bring a blanket for you and your toddler to sit on, and snacks to share. Not only is it a different way to bond, it’s way less stressful than going to the movies.

Now you can both relax and enjoy yourselves!

Playgrounds: Visit different playgrounds in your area to keep things fresh and exciting for your toddler

I never realized how many parks there are until I had my own child. They are about as common as gas stations, and I think that’s wonderful. Not everyone has a backyard or enough space for ther children to play outside.

Children need that stimulation – playing outside for hours is what they are made for. That energy has to go somewhere, so instead of it going into telling them not to jump on the couch 100x a day, take them to the playground.

I know, it’s a different kind of stressful, but at least they aren’t tearing up the house.

Small victories, my friend.

Ice cream outings: Treat your toddler to a special summer treat by taking them out for ice cream

No matter how old you are getting ice cream makes the day a little brighter. The huge scoops in a cone on a hot summer day is unmatched.

Pro-tip – It’s not about finishing all of it, it’s about the experience.

That includes you too, mama. Get that double scoop in a waffle cone (you earned it!)

I hope this Summer you try one of these fun summer activities

I’m sure most of us were counting the days until it was nice outside, so don’t get discouraged now. Your children will thank you for giving them wonderful memories, and spending quality time with them.

Enjoy this beautiful season with your kiddos!