As I write this sentence, the thermometer outside reads 99 degrees.  Yep. It’s definitely summertime in Savannah, and I love it! Some would say it’s a bit too hot out, but I beg to differ!  The heat actually makes it easy and, dare I say, pleasant to get outside.  I mean really – who can say no to the sprinkler in the summer?  And let’s face it: It’s a lot more enjoyable to let the babies finger-paint naked on the deck and hose off when finished as opposed to painting indoors.  (Plus, the pics are priceless!) It’s so easy to beat the summertime heat with fun and FREE outdoor recreations, and I thought I’d share a few ideas with you.

Backyard Fun:  Keep the car parked and save on gas!

Sprinklers are the ultimate summertime play “toy” and double to water the grass!

Water buckets (any size, any shape) are lots of fun for the younger kids – I fill up several and add food coloring to let Naomi splash and mix the different colors. (A big hit!) Also, having your child help water the flowers or grass gives them a job and sense of purpose.  What’s not to love about that?

Slip’n’Slide – self-explanatory, and although Naomi is a tad too young right now, you better believe I plan on snatching up one of these bad boys during an end-of-summer sale!

Swing – I have yet to meet a child that does not like to swing (I still
enjoy it to this day), and it’s a nice way to get outside, feel the breeze, and connect with your little one.

Sandbox – Naomi’s sweet daddy made her a sandbox, and although we have the ultimate “sandbox” at Tybee Island, sometimes it’s nice to just stay home.  (We used an under-bed container with lid so we can keep it clean and ended up saving us $$ too!)

Finger-paint and sidewalk chalk – just hose off and you’re good to go!

Out-and-About:

If you feel the urge to get out of the house, then by all means, go! There are lots of ways to enjoy the summer with the kids away from home and without spending tons of cash. Whether you’re carpooling to the park in between summer camps or hitting up the pool, beach, or nearest body of water, you’d be surprised at what you can find right outside your own backdoor. 

***If you’re interested in specific events in your own hometown (kid’s camps, puppet shows, etc.), take a look at eventful.com and search for “kids and family” in your hometown. They provide a list of lots of activities for many cities.  City websites can also provide a calendar of events and activities. ***

In and Around Town:

State parks, zoos, & wildlife centers – provide summer camps, tours, and activities at budget-friendly prices.

Libraries, theaters, & museums – free story time & puppet shows, $1 movies, and free admission for kids. 

Recreational facilities & local parks – playgrounds, swimming pools, classes and camps.  The options are limitless; just don’t forget your water bottle!

Anything with water (and lots of it).  Be it river, lake, pool, or ocean, you’ll be finding me at one of those places sooner than later!

We’re always looking for new and fun things to do, so I’d love to hear what you’re planning.  How do you beat the heat?