Skip to main content
Advice

Summer Activities for Babies and Toddlers

August 25, 2022

Have you been asking yourself, "How can I keep my toddler busy in the summer?" Lucky for you, summertime is a great time to get out and explore with your little one. Here are some ideas for fun summer activities for babies and toddlers. From swimming to picnics, there's something for everyone! So grab your sunscreen and let's get started.

At-Home Summer Activities for Babies

  1. Take a trip to the park. There's nothing like a good old-fashioned trip to the park. Babies love being outside and exploring new environments. Plus, it's a great way to get some Vitamin D and fresh air. Just be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, water, and snacks.

  2. Set up an indoor "beach." If it's too hot to go outside, bring the beach to you! Set up a kiddie pool in your living room and let your baby splash around. Add some toys, such as balls or plastic animals, to make it even more fun.

  3. Make homemade frozen treats. Who doesn't love a cold treat on a hot day? Making your own healthy frozen snacks is easy and fun. Simply blend up some fruits and vegetables with a little water or juice, pour into an ice cube tray, and freeze. Once they're solid, pop them out and enjoy!

  4. Have a picnic lunch. Spread a blanket on the floor or in the backyard and enjoy a picnic lunch with your baby. Finger foods are perfect for this activity. And if you're feeling really adventurous, try having a "taste test" picnic where you

  5. Set up a makeshift water table in your backyard and let your baby explore with cups, bowls, and spoons. This is a great way to encourage sensory play. Plus, it's a fun activity for the whole family!

  6. Visit a nearby splash pad or sprayground. This is a great way to let your baby cool off without getting fully immersed in water. And it's usually free!

  7. Go for a walk or bike ride around your neighborhood. Babies love being outside, and this is a great way to get some fresh air and exercise.

  8. Read stories together outside under a shady tree on a hot day. This is a great way to beat the heat and bond with your baby.

  9. Make homemade bubbles and play catch with them outdoors (supervised, of course!). This is a fun way to encourage your baby's coordination skills.

  10. Collect colorful stones, shells, feathers, and other treasures while on walks around town or at the beach. This is a great way to encourage your baby's interest in the world around them.


At-Home Summer Activities for Toddlers

  1. Take a nature walk. This is a great way to introduce your baby or toddler to the world around them. Don't forget to bring along a stroller or carrier if your little one gets tired easily.

  2. Play in the sprinklers. This is a classic summer activity that all kids love! If you don't have a sprinkler at home, you can always visit a local park that has one.

  3. Go for a swim. Swimming is not only great exercise, but it's also a fun way to beat the heat. If you're not comfortable taking your baby into the pool, there are many infant and toddler swim classes available.

  4. Have a picnic. Picnics are a great way to enjoy the outdoors with your little one. If you don't have a lot of time, you can always have a picnic lunch in your own backyard.

  5. Plant a garden. This is a fun activity for both you and your child. Gardening is a great way to teach your child about nature and responsibility.

  6. Explore some bugs. Most kids are fascinated by bugs. Go on a bug hunt in your own backyard or visit a local park. Be sure to bring along a magnifying glass so your child can get up close and personal with these critters.

  7. Paint with water. This is a great activity for hot summer days. All you need is some washable paint and a few buckets of water. Your child will love painting the sidewalks, driveway, or even the side of your house!

  8. Make homemade ice cream. This is a delicious activity that your child will love. There are many easy recipes online that you can follow.

  9. Go on a scavenger hunt. This is a great way to explore your neighborhood or local park. Make a list of things for your child to find, such as leaves, flowers, rocks, or sticks.

  10. Visit a farmer's market. This is a great place to find fresh fruits and vegetables. Many markets also have live music and other entertainment. This is a great way to spend a Saturday morning with your little one.


Fun Summer Excursions for Babies and Toddlers

Thinking of heading out of the house for some summer fun? Here's a few ideas for fun excursions for babies and toddlers alike.

  1. Visit a nearby zoo or aquarium. This is a great way to spend a day learning about animals. Most zoos and aquariums have special areas for children where they can get up close and personal with the animals.

  2. Take a trip to the beach. This is a great way to let your little one play in the sand and splash in the waves. Be sure to bring along plenty of sunscreen and a hat to protect your child from the sun.

  3. Explore a museum. Regardless of the weather, a trip to the museum can be a fun excursion for your baby or toddler. Many museums have special areas or exhibits designed specifically for children. This is a great way to learn and have fun at the same time.

  4. Visit a farm. This is a great way to spend a day in the country. Many farms offer tours, hayrides, and other activities for children. This is a great way to introduce your child to farm animals.

  5. Take a hike. This is a great way to get some fresh air and explore the great outdoors. Be sure to bring along a carrier or backpack if your child gets tired easily.

  6. Attend a sporting event. This is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening cheering on your favorite team. Many stadiums and arenas have special areas for families with young children.

  7. Go to the movies. This is a great activity for rainy days or hot summer afternoons. Many theaters offer discounted tickets for matinee showings. This is a great way to catch up on the latest blockbusters with your little one.

  8. Visit an amusement park. This is a great way to spend a day filled with laughter and fun. Many amusement parks offer rides and attractions specifically for young children. Be sure to check the height requirements before you go.

  9. Attend a concert. This is a great way to enjoy live music with your little one. Many outdoor concerts are held in the summer months. Be sure to bring along some earplugs or noise-canceling headphones for your child.

  10. Head to a new park or location for a picnic. This is a great way to enjoy the summer weather and explore a new place. Pack a lunch and head to your local park for a picnic. Your child will love running around and playing games in the fresh air.


If you've been asking yourself, "What should I do with my summer baby," we hope we've provided enough inspiration for you. Summertime is a great time to get out and explore with your baby or toddler. These are just a few ideas to get you started. With a little planning, you can have a summer full of fun and memories that will last a lifetime.

Author Bio

Madelyn Harris

Hailing from Southern California, copywriter Madelyn Harris has lived and worked in a number of domestic and international locations. Her favorite spots include Hoi An, Vietnam and Napier, New Zealand. She’s a big fan of Jeopardy, hot yoga, and the Oxford comma.