Surviving Summer

While I am so eager to not have the craziness of the school year and the added stress of COVID and masks, I am a bit anxious at the thought of having my kids home all day everyday. Don't get me wrong, I love my kids more than anything. But they are active little humans and keeping them occupied is a full time job. Add to the fact that I am pregnant and not able to be as physically active as I would normally be. Needless to say, I am in need of a plan to keep my kids entertained and engaged while keeping myself sane.

I have found a whole bunch of backyard friendly solutions that should make summer activities easy and fun. You can shop all these links by clicking HERE.

Foam Machine - this is a bit of a splurge but oh my gosh, how fun does this look and its so different. This would be amazing if you are hosting a birthday party and need a fun, safe activity for all ages

Modeling Clay - I have shared this in the past as my favorite play doh alternative. It comes in a lot more colors and it doesn't make the same mess as play doh. I keep this on hand for rainy days where the kids are climbing the walls.

Water Beads - An amazing sensory experience for all ages. I love these an indoor or outdoor toy. This specific kit comes with lots of accessories to step up the water bead experience.

Kids Pool - this one is our favorite. Its actually meant for pets and that is one of the reasons I love it most. It is much hardier than a blow up pool as it doesn't rip or burst. It also folds up accordion style. No getting dizzy trying to inflate those dang pools.

Play Sink - another great indoor or outdoor toy. Amazing for rainy days or tight spaces. It does not take up the same space as a full water table but provides the same amount of splash!

Sun Buddies - this one is for the adults sanity. Applying sunscreen is everyone's least favorite activity. These applicators make it so much easier. Its quick and painless and provides a good amount of coverage without wrestling your little one.

Sprinkler - we have this sprinkler and love it. It shoots water everywhere and lights up. It also is really compact making it easy to store.

Foam Water Sprayer - this pairs really well with a kiddie pool and provides a lot of fun for kids. They are foam so no injuries from slipping on wet grass with them. I also love that it is an alternative to water balloons (no one has time to pick up all those small broken balloon pieces).

Splash Pad - another great alternative if you have smaller kids. I love this because all my kids can play and I don't worry about the baby falling into too much water.

Stomp Rockets - these are a family favorite. My kids love playing with these and they keep them occupied for a long time. A great alternative to water play!

Water Table - Cant go wrong with a traditional water table. I loved this one specifically since its gender neutral, well priced and could provide fun for a lot of ages.Another splurge item and one I ordered for my kids this year. Excited to try this one out and see how they do!

Racing Slide - This is another splurge but it looks like so much fun and a unique alternative to a slip and slide. It also comes with a pump to inflate it. I ordered this for my kids this year. Stay tuned for reviews!