There is just something about water play. I have never met a child that does not love playing in the rain, splashing in a pool or stomping through a puddle. The summertime, with its long days, hot sun and lack of school, simply screams for outdoor water play. Here are a few easy, fun and wet activities for the whole family to enjoy this summer!
Sprinkler Time – Whether you own the traditional oscillating yellow sprinkler or a branded Dora or Sponge Bob plastic water twirler, a sprinkler is a fantastic and classic outdoor family activity. We just bought an elevated sprinkler which is actually a two and a half-foot tall metal post with three curved-prongs at the top that spin insanely when the water pressure reaches the pinnacle of the device. The height of our sprinkler is ideal for a three year old to run through and under in a bathing suit or just a tee shirt and underwear, getting soaking wet in the process.
Car Wash – Speaking of a classic family activity! Fill up some buckets with soapy water, grab a handful of towels and washcloths and clean the family car(s). We have some great photos of our darling Clementine splashing and sitting in the soapy buckets last summer. Be sure to save a couple towels for the drying of the car(s)!
Water Guns – This one depends on how you feel about gunplay, but even the most conservative family can usually stand some water pistols during the summertime. Water guns have come a long way since my childhood in the mid-1980’s, they are now available in super-soaker missile format and with extra water supply backpack systems allowing a kid to fill up maybe just about once a week (as opposed to the every-15 second refills needed when I was a wee-lad).
No matter what water time fun you dive into, be prepared to get wet and have a blast!