The summer heat wave continues to burn the East Coast of the United States, and things are not much cooler here in the Midwest. On the bright side, my home has never been so clean thanks to the fact that my daughter has spent so much time playing outside.
Still, staying cool in the great outdoors is challenging when the mercury tops the century mark. If you are looking for ways to keep your kids cool during the current heat wave, then consider the following ideas:
BODY PAINTING
Have your kids dress in swimsuits and place finger paints or watercolors in plastic containers near a water hose, sprinkler or kiddie pool.
Have the kids paint a variety of pictures or shapes on their bodies, or they can take turns drawing shapes on their friends’ bodies.
When the children have covered as much skin as possible, get out the hose and sprinkler and give them a good wash. You could also let them play “car wash” by handing them wash cloths or clean sponges and have them gently scrub the paint off of their friends’ bodies.
COOL TREATS
These simple recipes are ideal to make with kids. You can make them indoors and eat them outside.
HOMEMADE ICE CREAM PUDDING SANDWICHES
Ingredients:
1 package (3.4-ounce) instant vanilla or chocolate pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 (12-ounce) container Cool Whip, thawed
1 cup miniature chocolate chips
48 graham cracker squares
Directions:
Mix pudding and milk according to package directions and refrigerate until set.
Fold in Cool Whip and chocolate chips.
Place 24 graham crackers on a baking sheet, top each with about 3 tablespoons of the filling. Place another graham cracker on top.
Freeze for 2 hours or until firm.
Wrap individually in plastic wrap.
HOMEMADE OREO ICE CREAM CAKE
Ingredients:
1 1/2 pounds Oreos, crushed fine
6 ounces melted butter
1 quart, vanilla ice cream
Directions:
Line the bottom and sides of an 8-inch spring form pan with parchment.
Combine cookie crumbs and butter; press half of the mixture into prepared pan.
Fill pan with vanilla ice cream, making sure to smooth out the top.
Add remaining Oreo crumbs and gently press to form a top crust.
Place cake into freezer for at least 4 hours.
To unmold, allow cake to warm for 10 minutes. Remove pan sides. Flip cake onto cake pan. Remove parchment. Slice and serve.
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