Unfortunately for parents, those long summer weekends are when the real work begins. We know it can be a chore all in itself to find activities that keep up with the unbounded energy of your toddlers and preschoolers. Well, look no further. Here are ten of our favorite easy and fun activities that will keep your little one occupied for hours.
Googly eye paintings. This would be a super fun outside activity in the summer. You can switch to finger painting or even fabric paint and have them decorate a new t-shirt or tank top.
If bubbles are getting a little too boring, try this fun spin on iconic summertime activity. Bonus, the bubble art produced from this activity is totally frame-worthy.
Empty plastic bottles, a few clear containers, water and food coloring will equal a fun (and educational) way to explore colors.
Create your own rainy day in a jar. This fun STEM experiment will demonstrate to those little minds how water droplets condense and fall from the clouds.
Save those summer sandal shoe boxes for this nature shadow box. A little exploring in a park (or even a backyard) will supply a bounty of treasures that they can preserve on their own.
Sidewalk painting with water? This has to be the cleanest activity on the internet. The brilliant minds behind this know that clean-up is often half the battle.
Candy coated water colors. Anything with candy is sure to be a winner. The lovely pastel colors that come from this cool project are completely non-toxic.
DIY obstacle course. We love this idea because after a little prep, mom and dad have time to sit back and put their feet up. Use things that you already have, slides, hula-hoops, swings… and challenge them to beat their own time.
Make snack time, fun time with this simple activity that promotes fine motor skill development. Use healthy snacks (like cereal or mini-pretzels) and a sweet option to make it extra exciting.
This one is just plain fun for the whole family, because who can’t resist a DIY water slide?
Toddler and preschool classroom teachers know that activities like these are the perfect way to keep those little minds and hands busy. And we know (from experience) that these years are the ones that you will cherish for summers to come, make some memories this weekend.