Cool Ideas For Hot Summer Days

It. Is. Hot. Summer is definitely here. So when those temps start climbing, it’s time to bring on some cool ideas. Here are some simple ways to help your family beat the heat:

Early Mornings
Playgrounds, sports, tag–all of these are best served cool. So head out early in the morning for some run around fun. Fresh air and exercise are a wonderful start to the day.

Head Indoors
Once the day really warms up, we head inside to enjoy the air conditioner. Games, puzzles, crafts, play doh, books, school (we homeschool all year)–there are a lot of different things the kids can do inside during the hottest parts of the day. Sometimes I suggest things, other times, I let them hit boredom. And I don’t bail them out. You would be amazed at how creative kids can be when they get bored. Just make sure you have creative tools and supplies handy.

Don’t have an AC? Head to the library, or some other indoor place and enjoy their cool interiors.

Siesta Time
Rising temps means it’s time to slow down. I think there is something to be said for afternoon siestas. Countries with warmer climates usually have siestas as part of their culture. I can see the wisdom in that. Midday in the summer means it’s time to slow down and be still. Seek the shade. Use fans, cool rags or bandannas.

Water Fun
It’s still pretty hot out in the late afternoons and early evenings, but the sun is far less intense. This is the perfect time for water play. You don’t have to worry about bad sunburns or overheating. Grab up those water guns, water balloons or the garden hose and get rowdy! Or you can head to the pool to splash around. Often times, the pool is less crowded during this time of the day which is perfect for families.

Cool Refreshments
Popsicles. Icebox watermelon. Frozen fruit or vegetables (peas, anyone?). Summer YESES! My kids love frozen treats. Okay, we all love frozen treats. Did you know a frozen grape tastes kind of like a slushy? It’s not rock hard like one would think. Frozen fruit is wonderful, and can be turned into homemade popsicles, slushies, smoothies or ice cream. Well, sorta like ice cream. Frozen banana put through the blender reminds me of ice cream.

We have ice cube trays with cute summer designs we picked up from the Salvation Army years ago. You don’t have to freeze just water–juice, tea, or smoothies are a fun surprise. Edible flowers, lemon zest, or fruit frozen in ice cubes are refreshing. Let them melt in your glass for a slow infusion of summer flavor.

Frozen Fun
Speaking of frozen ice cubes. Try getting a disposable or flexible container of some sort, and freeze a giant ice cube for some ice brick craziness. You could make an obstacle race where the kids have to push it to the finish line with sticks. Or have them wear garden gloves. Another idea is to freeze a plastic animal in it, and have them use “picks” or wedges and mallets to excavate the frozen animal from the ice. You probably want to supervise younger kids for this one.

Evenings
Late summer evenings are great for bike rides and walks. Or stay close to home and kick back in the yard. Yard games would be nice at this time of day. Once it cools off enough, a fire pit could be lit up for roasting marshmallows–provided there isn’t a fire ban.

There is no doubt that summer heat can make us long for fall’s crisp embrace. Try some of these tips to enjoy the remaining days of summer with your family. Build some awesome memories for this season, too.

Check out the other blogs on this cruise for more ideas to stay cool this summer.

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