15 Toddler Summer Activities That’ll Save Your Sanity (and Maybe Your Couch)

Introduction to Summer Fun

Summer is a magical time for kids, filled with endless possibilities for fun and adventure. With the warm weather and long days, it’s the perfect opportunity to get outside and enjoy nature, try new activities, and make lasting memories with family and friends.

Whether you’re looking for easy summer activities or more complex projects, we’ve got you covered. From toddler activities to fun summer activities for older kids, there’s something for everyone. So why not get started and make this summer one to remember? Let’s dive into some great ideas that will keep your little ones entertained and your sanity intact.

1) Backyard camping with a mini tent and fairy lights

Let’s be real—sometimes camping is just pitching a tiny tent in the backyard next to the kiddie pool and calling it a day.

We bring out the snacks, toss in some soft pillows, and hang up those fairy lights like we’re the coolest campground around.

Add some DIY lanterns for a little extra sparkle, because why not? You can also use boxes and duct tape to create a fun camping setup, like a box fan tunnel for cooling off or a creative fort.

It’s an adventure without leaving home and honestly, the bathroom isn’t even that far away. Camping win!

If you need more tips, check out these backyard camping ideas for families.

2) DIY sensory bin with rice, pasta, and small toys

Okay, hear us out—toddler activities like sensory bins are game changers for summer days when we need our toddlers busy for more than five minutes.

We just grab a big plastic tub, dump in some uncooked rice or pasta, and toss in a mix of small toys. Think little cars, dinosaurs, or even measuring spoons. You can also use an ice cube tray to freeze small toys in water, creating a fun and engaging activity as kids rescue the frozen toys.

The textures keep tiny hands fascinated, and adding soapy water with bubbles to the mix makes the mess (let’s be real) is half the fun.

If you want to switch it up, check out creative sensory bin ideas like rainbow rice or fun themes from these awesome sensory bin ideas. While some of these activities require minimal prep work, others might need a bit more setup but are still manageable.

3) Water balloon toss party with colorful balloons

Let’s grab a pack of bright water balloons and squirt bottles to set up a water table to turn our backyard into a splash zone alongside the kiddie pool! Use a cooler to keep the water balloons cold for an extra refreshing experience.

We can split into teams, line up, and toss those balloons to each other—aiming to catch, but let’s be real, there will be some hilarious misses.

Tiny hands? No problem! It’s all about laughing, getting wet, and cheering everyone on.

If you need ideas for water balloon games, there are tons to try.

4) Nature scavenger hunt in your local park

Let’s grab our sunhats and get outside to explore the garden because we’re going on a scavenger hunt!

Nothing says summer like running around the park looking for pinecones, bugs, and funky shaped leaves.

We can use a simple printable from this nature scavenger hunt for kids to make things super easy.

Watching our little ones light up when they find “treasures” is the best kind of summer magic. This activity not only entertains but also provides educational benefits, helping your child learn about nature and develop observational skills.

5) Mess-free patriotic star painting for the 4th of July

Let’s be real—we love a cute craft with craft supplies that doesn’t end with us scrubbing paint out of hair.

This mess-free patriotic star painting is honestly genius and perfect for little hands.

All you need are some star cutouts, a Ziploc bag, and a few dabs of red, white, and blue paint. You can also use painter’s tape to create unique designs on the stars before placing them in the bag.

Pop the star in the bag, add the paint, seal it up, and let the kids squish away!

No paint on the table, no paint on the walls, and our sanity stays whole. It’s like Fourth of July magic for parents.

See more ideas for mess free patriotic star painting.

6) Building a flower soup with petals and leaves

Who knew old flowers could be this fun?

Let’s grab some petals, leaves, maybe even a few wild weeds, toss them in a big bin of water, and call it “flower soup.” You can also add tissue paper and pipe cleaners for additional creative elements.

Our kids go wild with spoons, bowls, and their super serious chef faces.

This simple activity is the perfect backyard win. We get fresh air, our little ones get sensory play, and cleanup is basically just dumping the water.

You can check out more inspiration for making flower soup sensory bins if you want a few more ideas!

7) Flower and leaf nature cutting bin craft

Let’s grab those leftover yard clippings and make a super fun nature cutting bin!

We just toss in flowers, leaves, grasses—whatever’s hanging out in the yard. You can also add paper for additional creative activities like painting, making paper flowers, or trying out some origami.

It’s all about letting our toddlers snip away, practice those scissors skills, and get a little messy.

Plus, it’s free and gives us time to enjoy some sunshine together.

If you need inspo, Busy Toddler has a nature cutting bin idea that’s totally simple and stress-free.

8) Alphabet sensory bin with rice and letter magnets

Okay, let’s talk about some great activities that are honestly way easier than they sound.

We just grab a bin, fill it with dry rice, and toss in a bunch of letter magnets. Boom—instant fun.

Our toddlers cannot resist digging their little hands through the rice to hunt for letters.

It’s seriously like a mini treasure hunt mixed with alphabet practice.

If you want more inspo, check out this alphabet rice sensory bin idea that totally saves the day on hot afternoons.

Cleanup? Meh, worth it for five minutes of peaceful play with some ice added to the mix.

For more sensory bin ideas, be sure to check out our other posts.

9) Water scooping games using cups and sponges

Let’s be honest, water play is a sanity saver on those wild, sticky afternoons.

Consider using fly swatters for creative water play, where toddlers can enjoy splashing and transferring water in a fun and engaging way.

For this one, we grab some cups and chunky sponges, fill up a couple of buckets, and let our toddlers scoop, squeeze, and transfer water back and forth.

We’re talking easy setup, big giggles, and probably a splash war or two.

Seriously, watching our kiddos master water transfer with sponges is the best kind of summer chaos—so simple, but they’re obsessed with it!

If you need a few tips, check out these water play ideas with sponges for inspo.

10) DIY box fan water mister for hot days

Okay, so hot summer afternoons? Not our favorite.

But turning our box fan into a DIY water mister is actually kind of genius and so easy!

We can grab a basic misting kit and attach it to the front of our fan using duct tape—just like this mist fan hack.

Turn it on and boom—instant cool down zone for us and our wild little ones.

11) Berry picking picnic with toddler-friendly snacks

Okay, let’s grab our buckets and head to the local berry patch! Using a cooler to keep the berries fresh ensures they stay perfect for snacking later. Our toddlers love getting their hands messy, and we can also bring our own bubble wands for extra fun.

Picking berries gives us the perfect excuse to soak up some fresh air and sunshine. Plus, everyone gets to snack as they go, which is half the fun anyway.

We keep it simple and pack easy bites like mini sandwiches and cheese cubes. Skewers with fruit or cheese are always a hit and super fun for the little ones to hold onto—get inspired here.

12) DIY outdoor Twister game with washable paint

Let’s grab some washable paint and turn the backyard into a life-sized Twister game with little prep! We can use painter’s tape for creating the game board. We can use marking paint made for lawns or just mix up some super watered-down tempera paint—bonus points for extra messy clothes.

We mark big dots on the grass and let those little toes and fingers go wild. No board, no rules, just pure squeals and color everywhere.

Who cares if we get a little paint on our shorts? That’s just proof we had fun.

13) Splash pad adventures at your local community center

Okay, but can we talk about the pure joy that is a splash pad? We get to sit (or, let’s be real, chase our little wild ones) while the kiddos run through spraying water and laugh their heads off. For additional water play, consider setting up a water station with various containers filled with water for pouring and exploring.

Most community centers have splash pads, and some even offer shaded spots for us to chill. If you’re near the San Fernando area, they’ve got a splash pad and tons of water fun to keep everyone cool.

Grab your towels, toss some snacks in a bag, and let’s make a splash!

14) Painting rocks with bright, bold colors

Okay, friend, let’s talk about painting rocks! We grab a bunch of smooth stones, bust out all the wild colors, and just go for it. You can also use paper for additional creative activities like painting, making paper flowers, or trying out origami.

It’s a win for messy hands, big laughs, and letting toddlers go full creative mode. Sometimes we get inspired by rock painting ideas for kids, but honestly, making up our own wild designs is half the fun.

Zero rules, just color, happiness, and maybe a dinosaur or two somewhere in the mix.

15) Boat watching safari at the nearest marina

Let’s pack up the snacks and hit the marina for a boat watching safari! We don’t need fancy tickets—just some curiosity and maybe a pair of sunglasses for dramatic effect. And don’t forget to bring a good book for those quiet moments.

There’s so much to see, from shiny yachts to little dinghies bobbing around. If we’re lucky, we might even spot some sea birds or seals hanging out by the docks.

Some marinas offer awesome wildlife boat tours, like the ones in Marina del Rey. Boats, animals, and all those toddler gasps—what’s not to love?

Learning Through Play

Learning through play is an essential part of childhood development, and summer is the perfect time to encourage kids to get creative and try new things. One great idea is to set up a pouring station using a water table, cups, and other materials. This simple activity can help develop hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills while keeping kids cool and entertained. Another fun activity is to create a bubble solution and let kids make their own bubble wands. Not only is this a blast, but it also teaches them about science and chemistry. With a little creativity, you can turn any summer activity into a learning experience that’s both fun and educational. Sensory bins, water tables, and DIY projects are all fantastic ways to keep those little hands busy and minds engaged.

Food and Cooking

Food and cooking are a big part of summer fun, and there are many ways to get kids involved in the kitchen. One fun activity is to set up a kiddie pool and have a “cook-out” where kids can make their own snacks and drinks. Imagine the joy on their faces as they mix up their own fruit punch or assemble mini sandwiches! Another idea is to have a picnic and let kids help with the food preparation. This can teach them about measurement and following recipes, all while enjoying the great outdoors. Homemade ice cream, fruit skewers, and backyard BBQs are all fantastic ways to spend quality time with family and friends. With a little planning, you can make cooking a fun and engaging activity that kids will love.

Music and Movement

Music and movement are essential parts of childhood development, and summer is the perfect time to get kids moving and grooving. One great idea is to set up a backyard obstacle course using items like hula hoops, cones, and pool noodles. This can help develop gross motor skills and coordination while providing endless entertainment. Another fun activity is to have a water balloon toss, which can teach kids about teamwork and communication. Dance parties, outdoor games, and even simple activities like playing with a beach ball can get kids active and having fun. With a little creativity, you can turn any summer activity into a fun and engaging way to get kids moving and active.

Science and STEM

Science and STEM activities are a great way to encourage kids to learn and explore the world around them, and summer is the perfect time to get started. One great idea is to set up a sensory bin using rice, beans, or sand and hide small toys or other objects for kids to find. This can teach them about texture and density while providing hours of entertainment. Another fun activity is to create a homemade lava lamp using oil, water, and food coloring. This simple experiment can teach kids about buoyancy and density in a fun and engaging way. From making homemade slime to creating a backyard volcano, there are countless ways to make science fun and exciting. With a little planning, you can make science and STEM a fun and exciting part of your summer activities.

Making Summer Memories Last

We all want those sweet summer moments to stick around long after the sunscreen fades, just like our favorite summer activities. Using a great list of engaging activities for toddlers can help capture these precious moments. Simple tricks help us hold onto the giggles, messy faces, and wild adventures for years.

Creative Ways To Capture The Fun

Nothing screams “our summer was awesome!” like photos. But let’s not just snap random pictures—let’s get in there and make memories that pop.

We love setting up silly photo challenges, like “who can make the goofiest popsicle face” or lining up our cute chaos for a backyard group hug picture. It’s also super fun to hand our little ones a (kid-safe!) camera or even our old cell phone and see the world through their eyes.

We get some wild and wobbly photos, but each shot is just pure, unfiltered toddler fun. Don’t forget to jot down those hilarious quotes or mini-stories.

Scribbling memories in a little summer journal, jotting notes on the back of printed photos, or collecting ticket stubs in a jar makes the days extra special. For more fun activity ideas, check out these summer memory makers.

Turning Photos Into Keepsakes

Once we have the pics, let’s do something cool with them! We love making easy keepsakes that stick around longer than leftover sidewalk chalk.

Print out a bunch of photos and help our toddlers create a summer scrapbook—let them pick stickers, color the pages, and glue everything with way too much glue. Or make a simple photo collage on the fridge, so every snack break comes with a blast of memories.

You can also print pictures as postcards and mail them to grandparents—trust us, mail from the grandkids is a win every time. Another fun idea is to make a “Summer Memories” jar.

Drop a photo and a little note about the day inside, and pull them out next year for a walk down memory lane. Keepsakes don’t have to be fancy—just us, our kiddos, and a few treasured snapshots to help remember the magic.

Keeping Toddlers Safe While They Explore

Keeping toddlers safe during summer adventures is all about balancing fun and a little common sense. Using a cooler to keep drinks cold can help ensure they stay hydrated and refreshed. We want laughing, playing, and exploring, without any extra drama from sunburns or overheating.

Sun Safety Tips For Little Adventurers

The sun may feel amazing, but those UV rays are sneaky! We always try to slather on sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours, especially if our littles are in and out of water or running wild. Using a cooler to keep sunscreen and drinks cold can make reapplication more pleasant and refreshing.

It helps to make a little game out of it—“Let’s be sunscreen superheroes!”—which at least makes them laugh while we’re chasing their wiggly arms. Wide-brimmed hats and lightweight long-sleeved shirts are our go-tos for extra sun blocking.

We snag sunglasses with UV protection when we can because even kids’ eyes shouldn’t deal with the glare. We also plan outings in the morning or late afternoon when the sun isn’t at full blast.

Dressing kids in light, long clothing and hats gives double protection, just like what’s suggested by the experts at Bright Horizons and Pediatrics of Florence. Sunscreen isn’t enough!

We remind each other to seek shade for snack breaks, water refills, or—let’s be real—a break from playing lifeguard for five minutes.

Keeping Cool On Hot Days

High temps can sneak up fast. We watch for signs like flushed cheeks or crankiness, and don’t ignore complaints about being hot. Using a cooler for keeping drinks and snacks cold can also help manage the heat.

It’s super important to keep water bottles filled. Encourage frequent sips, even if they claim they’re “not thirsty.”

We love a park day. But if it’s noon and the playground feels hotter than your curling iron on date night, we find indoor activities or splash pads instead.

Taking breaks in the shade helps. Sometimes we use handheld fans or slap a damp washcloth on a forehead, and serving up lots of cold food, like fruit, just feels right.

If we’re doing stroller walks—oh, the naps!—we throw a sunshade over the stroller. We check the temp inside often, just in case, and sometimes we bring bubbles for added fun .

And yes, we totally rock the “carry extra clothes and emergency popsicles” trick for keeping cool, especially when we have some ice handy . Comfort (and happy toddlers) wins every single time.

For more tips, the pros at Children’s Health put beating the heat at the top of their summer safety must-dos.