It is officially summer! Anyone else soaking in the warmer weather and sunshine like I am? Here in NWO, we have been teased with nice weather quite a few times. However, now our good weather seems here to stay and I am here for it! This means I have been on the hunt for all things needed to survive my first summer with a little one.
I have put together a list of some must-haves for little ones to have you ready to tackle the summer season:
Sunscreen
This deserves to be number one because I truly believe everyone (adults included) should be wearing sunscreen daily to protect your skin. I love the Neutrogena face stick. It makes it so easy to apply sunscreen to my little one’s face; especially when they are squirming and won’t sit still.
Sunhat
There are tons of options out there for sunhats but one of my favorites that I have for my son, I purchased off Amazon. It’s great since it has a drawstring so he can’t easily pull it off. I also am loving this one as it covers the neck as well.
Kiddie pool/splash pad
If you’re like me and don’t have a pool in your backyard, a kiddie pool or sprinkler might be your and your child’s best friend for the hot summer days ahead. This one on Amazon is great for new walkers, toddlers, and even bigger kids! I mean who doesn’t love some water play?
UV/Rashguard Swimwear
If you haven’t noticed, protecting your skin is a huge priority for me when it comes to being outside. So I am all for swimwear that protects as well. This one is a great option that also has long sleeves, which I love because it helps protect if I don’t reapply sunscreen soon enough.
Sandbox
Okay so I won’t lie, I had a sandbox growing up and I LOVED it. Mine was shaped like a turtle and I cannot wait to get one for my little guy. Also a little tip – place it somewhere shaded so the sand doesn’t get too hot while they are sitting inside of it.
Popsicle mold
Who doesn’t love a cold popsicle on a hot summer day? And by making your own, you can turn it into a fun activity for your kids too by letting them help. You can even pick out a mold to match what your kiddo loves and double the excitement!
Water bottle
You will want them to stay hydrated so getting a good water bottle is a must. And Yetti has one made specifically for wild and messy children – Score!
Beach Canopy
I will be getting one of these for outside, it is perfect for giving some shade while being outside still. This one can fit up to 3-4 people.
Bug Spray
Obviously everyone knows there are a lot of harsh chemicals in bug spray, I’ve read lots of good reviews on this one from California Baby It is non-toxic and made specifically for children.
Bubbles
I can’t make a summer must-have list and leave out bubbles. They might be messy and your child may spill the whole bottle but let’s be real, kids love bubbles! Get a bubble machine and now you have the mom hack for endless hours of fun without the fuss!
Sidewalk chalk
Another item that I just couldn’t leave off this list. Chalk can entertain your kids for hours
Floaties
There are so many different floaties out there for kids of all ages. Whether you want arm floaties, jackets, or a swim float with a canopy on top for added shade, if you plan on being in the water it is a definite must-have
I hope this list helps mamas and that you get to soak up all the time you can this summer!
