Sunshine & Snuggles: 12 Summer Activities for Babies & Toddlers

Summer with little ones is all about simple joys, messy play, and making memories. Whether you’ve got a newborn in your arms or a wobbly toddler in water shoes, the warmer months are full of fun opportunities to connect, explore, and (hopefully) tire them out just enough for a good nap.

Here are 12 easy and low-pressure summer activity ideas for parents of babies and toddlers:

1. Backyard Blanket Picnics

Spread out a soft summer blanket, grab some finger foods (and bottles!), and enjoy a shaded spot in your yard or local park. Add bubbles and you're golden.

2. Water Play Bins

No pool? No problem. Fill a shallow bin with water, toss in measuring cups, toy animals, or floating balls. Toddlers will splash for hours and babies can join with supervision.

3. Mess-Free Painting

Squeeze paint into a ziplock bag, tape it to the high chair or floor, and let them squish and swirl without any cleanup stress. It’s art and sensory play.

4. Animal Sound Scavenger Hunt

Take a stroller walk and play “What do you hear?” Every bird tweet or dog bark is a chance to teach sounds and words. Bonus: They’ll probably fall asleep mid-hunt.

5. Mini Farmer’s Market Trips

Let them touch fruits, hear new sounds, and watch the world go by from the stroller. Plus, you get fresh snacks. A win-win.

6. Outdoor Story Time

Grab a few books, head outside, and read under a tree or umbrella. Pick colorful board books or cloth books for your littlest readers.

7. Splash Pad Adventures

Low stakes, big fun. Most cities have free splash pads. And toddlers love the unpredictable water streams!

8. Freeze & Snack

Freeze yogurt bites or sliced fruit and serve them during playtime outside. A perfect way to cool down and introduce new textures.

9. Diaper Bag Treasure Hunt

At home or out and about, hide a few small toys or objects in your bag and let them “discover” new surprises. Great for diaper changes or restaurant waits.

10. Sensory Beach Day (Even If It’s Just a Sandbox)

Sand scooping, bucket filling, toe burying. They are all magical experiences for little ones. Bring along your Wipe Me Downs for the sandy aftermath.

11. Bath Time in the Afternoon

Who says baths are just for bedtime? Turn it into a midday splash-fest when it’s too hot outside. Add bubbles, bath crayons, or even a popsicle for the ultimate summer cool-down.

12. Dance Party on the Lawn

Set up a Bluetooth speaker, hit play on your baby-friendly playlist, and dance around together like no one’s watching. Instant mood booster.

Pro Tip from The Happy Hues Crew:

Always keep Wipe Me Downs, a change of clothes, and a light summer blanket in your bag. Summer adventures are unpredictable (and a little prep goes a long way)!

Soak it up, take it slow, and don’t stress if your “big plans” turn into a short stroll and a snack. With little ones, every moment is an adventure.