Summer has arrived and if you are anything like me, trying to find ways to keep your toddlers busy can get overwhelming. Planning ahead makes the day go smoothly so be sure to pin this post to refer back to as you prep for an epic summer.
First of all, what is a summer bucket list? It’s a list of activities you’d like to complete by the end of summer. Having a summer bucket list really helps to prevent boredom. Yes, even my three year old gets bored! And having a plan allows for less hectic summer mayhem.
I’ve compiled a list of a few ideas to add to your summer plans. The list is categorized with a few items to get your list going for the summer! It could be fun to write them down and have your toddler pick from a jar using paper or popsicle sticks. Do one, a few, or do them all. Hopefully, this list will spark even more ideas for you and your toddler this summer.
Explore Nature
- Visit local parks or nature reserves: be sure to check out our various Columbia Parks & Playgrounds posts.
- Have a nature scavenger hunt or play outdoor bingo.
- Do some DIY nature crafts with things like leaves, rocks, or flowers.
Water Activities
- Visit local splashpads.
- Create a toddler water play station complete with bubbles and water toys.
- Have a pool day.
Gardening or Planting
- Start a garden or a container garden.
- Paint flower pots.
- Visit a local botanical garden; there’s a beautiful one at Riverbanks Zoo!
Outdoor Games
- Play bean bag or ring toss.
- Create an outdoor obstacle course.
- Play tag or have a race.
Crafting
- Use items like seashells, sand, or other materials to create a summer-themed craft.
- Make homemade wind chimes.
- Build a birdhouse and paint it together.
Outdoor Eating
- Have an old-fashioned picnic or a clear day.
- Make s’mores together.
- Cook hotdogs over a campfire.
Explore Together
- Take a day trip to the beach
- Visit local museums.
- Plan an epic staycation.
