Summer is here, and it’s time for some fun in the sun! If you have a toddler, you know how important it is to keep them entertained and engaged during the summer months. That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive toddler summer bucket list, filled with exciting activities that will make this season unforgettable for your little one.

From outdoor adventures to creative projects, I’ve got you covered. So, grab your sunscreen and let’s dive into the ultimate toddler summer bucket list!

The Ultimate Toddler Summer Bucket List

Exploring Nature

• Visit a Local Park: Take your toddler to a nearby park where they can run, climb, and swing to their heart’s content. It’s a great way to burn off some energy while enjoying the fresh air.
• Go on a Nature Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of items for your toddler to find in nature, such as leaves, rocks, or flowers. Explore your backyard or a local nature trail together and see how many items you can check off the list.
• Have a Picnic: Pack a delicious lunch and head to a scenic spot for a picnic with your little one. Don’t forget a blanket to sit on and some toys to keep them entertained between bites.
• Feed the Ducks: Find a nearby pond or lake where you can feed the ducks together. Your toddler will love watching the ducks gobble up food and might even get a kick out of quacking along with them. 

When it comes to feeding ducks, it’s important to remember that bread and other human foods are not suitable for their diet. While ducks may enjoy bread, it can be harmful to their health and disrupt the natural balance of their ecosystem. You can feed them duck feed, fresh vegetables, grains such as corn, oats and rice, or insects like mealworms and small earthworms. 

• Collect Seashells: If you’re lucky enough to live near the beach, take your toddler on a seashell-hunting adventure. Let them collect their favorite shells and create a beautiful keepsake to remember the day.

Water Fun

• Splash in a Kiddie Pool: Set up a small inflatable pool in your backyard and let your toddler splash around to beat the heat. Add some toys and bubbles to make it even more exciting.
• Visit a Splash Pad: Many parks and recreational areas have splash pads designed specifically for young children. Let your toddler run through the water jets and have a blast cooling off.
• Play with Water Balloons: Fill up some water balloons and have a playful water balloon fight with your little one. It’s a refreshing way to enjoy the summer heat while having loads of fun.
• Go to a Water Park: If your toddler is a bit older and loves water slides, take them to a toddler-friendly water park. Look for areas with shallow pools and small slides that are perfect for their age.
• Have a Bubble Party: Set up a bubble machine or blow bubbles for your toddler to chase and pop. You can also let them try blowing bubbles themselves with a child-friendly bubble wand.

Creative Projects

• Make Sidewalk Chalk Art: Grab a box of colorful sidewalk chalk and let your toddler’s imagination run wild. Encourage them to create their own masterpieces on the sidewalk or driveway.
• Paint with Watercolors: Set up an outdoor art station with watercolors and paper. Your toddler can paint their own summer-themed artwork while enjoying the warm weather.
• Create a Sensory Bin: Fill a large container with items like sand, water, rice, or dried beans for your toddler to explore. Add in some scoops, cups, and small toys for even more sensory fun.
• Build an Outdoor Fort: Head outside and create a fort for your little one to explore in the backyard. Your toddler will love crawling inside and pretending it’s their own secret hideaway.
• Plant a Garden: Get your toddler involved in gardening by letting them plant seeds or seedlings in pots or a small garden patch. Teach them about plants, watering, and watching their plants grow.

Outdoor Adventures

• Go on a Nature Walk: Take your toddler on a leisurely walk around your neighborhood or a local nature trail. Point out interesting plants, animals, and insects along the way.
• Have a Family Bike Ride: If your toddler is ready for some two-wheeled fun, go for a family bike ride. If your child isn’t ready for a bike of their own, which many are not, you can add a seat on the back or front of your back. These seats are available in bike stores, some big box stores and online. Start with a short and safe route, and don’t forget the helmets!
• Fly a Kite: Pick a breezy day and head to an open field or beach to fly a colorful kite with your little one. They will be thrilled to see their kite soaring high in the sky.
• Have a Teddy Bear Picnic: Invite your toddler’s favorite stuffed animals to join them for a picnic in the backyard or a nearby park. Pack some snacks, blankets, and make it a special occasion.
• Visit a Farm or Petting Zoo: Take your toddler to a local farm or petting zoo where they can see and interact with various animals. It’s a great opportunity for them to learn about different creatures and their habitats.

Indoor Fun

• Have a Movie Night: Pick a favorite toddler-friendly movie, dim the lights, and snuggle up together for a cozy movie night. Don’t forget the popcorn and some comfy pillows.
• Build an Indoor Fort: On a rainy day or when you just want to stay indoors, build a fort using blankets, pillows, and chairs. Your toddler will love having their own little hideout.
• Host a Tea Party: Set up a pretend tea party with your toddler and their favorite stuffed animals. Use plastic tea cups, plates, and play food to make it feel like a real celebration.
• Play Dress-Up: Gather some dress-up clothes and accessories for your toddler to explore different characters and roles. Encourage imaginative play and watch their creativity shine.
• Create an Obstacle Course: Set up a simple obstacle course using pillows, cushions, and other household items. Let your toddler navigate through the course and challenge themselves physically.

Bonus Tip: Sun Safety

While enjoying all these exciting activities with your toddler, it’s crucial to prioritize sun safety. Here are some tips to keep your little one protected from the sun’s harmful rays:

• Apply Sunscreen: Use sunscreen with a high SPF specifically formulated for children. Apply it generously to your toddler’s exposed skin, including their face, arms, and legs. Reapply every two hours or more frequently if they’ve been swimming or sweating.
• Dress for Protection: Dress your toddler in lightweight and breathable clothing that covers their arms and legs. Opt for hats with wide brims to shade their face and neck. Don’t forget to protect their delicate eyes with sunglasses that offer UV protection.
• Seek Shade: Whenever possible, find shaded areas to take breaks and cool off during outdoor activities. This will help minimize direct exposure to the sun.
• Stay Hydrated: Encourage your toddler to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during hot summer activities. Dehydration can occur more quickly in young children, so remind them to take regular water breaks.
• Time Outdoor Activities Wisely: Plan outdoor activities during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun’s rays are less intense. This will help reduce the risk of sunburn and heat exhaustion.

With this extensive toddler summer bucket list, you’re all set to make this season a memorable one for your little one. From exploring nature and enjoying water fun to engaging in creative projects and going on outdoor adventures, there’s something for every toddler to enjoy.