5 Cool Ways to Beat the Heat with Preschoolers

Aug 13, 2024

Late summer is upon us, along with almost triple digit temperatures in some areas. On days like this, it can be hard to get out of the house with your children. To help you cool off and burn off some energy, read on.

Child standing in a splash pad as water sprays around them

1. Water play

There are many ways to play in the water. If you have a local splash pad, that can be a great place to run and play with other kids. An alternative could be setting up a sprinkler in the yard and letting kids jump through it. Water tables are also great for small children, especially when filled with cups, funnels, water wheels, and other tools. And don’t forget water balloons, which now come in reusable varieties so you can have the fun without the mess.

2. Cool Treats

Making cold tasty snacks can be so much fun. Homemade popsicles with fruit juice in fun-shaped models. Or have your own ice cream shop with stations for different toppings. Smoothies can be a refreshing and healthier option. For more ideas, check out our recipes for fun summer treats.

3. Imaginative Play

Have a blast with role playing inside. Put on costumes and go far away to a fantasy land, perhaps creating a fort with cushions and blankets. Or celebrate with summer themes like a beach day or camping with small tents. You can even have an indoor teddy bear picnic and invite all their stuffed friends to play.

4. Get moving

Turn on some of their favorite songs and dance. You can get into costumes, add scarves, and join in with musical instruments. Incorporate games like “The Floor is Lava” or dancing like certain animals for different parts of the dance party to get some extra giggles in.

5. STEM Activities

Learn something new together with some science experiments about water. Freeze water with small toys or objects in it and watch how it changes shape when it melts. Or use ice cubes to paint on paper and observe how it feels on your fingers and how it changes as it melts against the paper. You could even mix different colors in the water before freezing it to explore how colors change when paired together.

Child in a wizard costume looking through a telescope

BONUS:
Go On an Indoor Scavenger Hunt

Our At Home Quest will send your child on a fun adventure discovering things throughout the house.

Screenshot of At Home Quest which includes items like towels, artwork, favorite toy, sock, chair, book and more