Get kids moving and keep cool on a warm day with these easy, affordable water play activities! They're even simpler than heading to the pool (just don’t forget the sunscreen!).
Get kids moving and keep cool on a warm day with these easy, affordable water play activities! They're even simpler than heading to the pool (just don’t forget the sunscreen!).
Hose Fun
Grab the garden hose and let the kids help water the plants. Then kick off the fun! Try games like water limbo or high-jump by making a water "bar" for kids to go under or over. You can also set up target practice on the driveway, fence, or a tree using chalk to create a target—or have a classic water fight with hoses, water guns, buckets, or water balloons.
Car Wash
Bring out the buckets, sponges, and some soapy water for a kid-powered car wash. Let them scrub down the car, bikes, ride-on toys, and other outdoor gear. When everything’s clean, turn the sponge into a game of “sponge tag”!
Splash Pad Outing
Take the kids to a local splashpad, like the one at Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre! Open during summer from late November/December to April/May, it’s a free, daily activity (weather permitting) and a great way to cool off.
Wet “Painting”
Give kids a bucket of water and some big paintbrushes or rollers, and let them "paint" on fences, porches, playsets, driveways, or sidewalks. It’s all the fun of painting without any mess!
Creek Adventure
Take a walk to a nearby creek for a refreshing nature day. Bring along toy boats or make your own using natural materials. Why not make up a story around your boats and their adventures!
Dribble, Dribble, Drench
Try this twist on Duck, Duck, Goose! Have everyone sit in a circle, and give the person who’s “It” a cup or watering can. They dribble a few drops on each person’s head, choosing one to douse completely. The soaked player then chases “It” around the circle, trying to tag them before they get back to the empty spot.
Outdoor Bath
Fill a kiddie pool with water, and add bath toys along with lightweight containers like pitchers, cups, sieves, funnels, and short PVC pipes. Let kids’ imaginations run wild with ways to splash, pour, and play.
Ice Block Building
With a little prep, freeze water in large containers like milk cartons, adding food coloring if you like. Let the kids build with the ice blocks, using a little salt to help pieces stick together. Take a picture of their creations before they melt!
