We are inching close to summer’s end, and moms everywhere might be inching towards empty when it comes to “a summer bucket list”. Last summer, we had to get creative when it came to beating the heat {and the “I’m so bored” statements}. While we are still hot, and those kids are still bored, this summer looks a little different. If you’re a mom running on low, and if you feel it’s safe, include your mom friends on some summer play date planning.
We are excited to share TEN summer play date ideas that will get you out of the house, tire out those kids, and reconnect moms everywhere!
Pool Potluck
It’s hot, y’all. It’s time to rally those moms with pools and plan a potluck. Order some pizzas, pull out the popsicles, and blow up the floaties. Let the kids safely swim away those summer blues while the moms spend some time catching up! If everyone brings a dish to share, it’s an easy way to reconnect and secure an early bedtime for the littles.
Sweet Treat Time
Gather around the kitchen table to create a perfect ice cream buffet. One mom can bring the ice cream while the others make sure all the necessary toppings are included. Pull out the plastic bowls, and let the kids build their dream sweet treat. Bonus if you keep it outside to minimize the mess.
Last summer, we got creative and hit up a local snow cone drive-thru then socially distanced ourselves in a big parking lot. Sweet treats made easy!
Outdoor Dinner Meet-Up
Plan a dinner meet-up at a local kid-friendly brewery or other restaurant with outdoor seating. Find one with plenty of room for the kids to run free, so the moms can catch up and have fun, too.
Geocaching
If the kids have been stuck inside too long, get outside with geocaching. Geocaching is a great learning experience that requires physical activity, learning to respect the outdoors, and improving their sense of adventure. There are so many fun treasures out there for kids to find!
Book Club/Book Exchange
Summer reading is fun for kids AND moms. Why not combine both? Pick a book for the moms to read then have the littles bring a book to exchange. Moms can discuss their latest read, too! Have book-themed snacks or activities for the kids to complete as well.
Beach Day
Luckily, we have a beach nearby that is a perfect play date setting. Spend a day on Pleasure Pier or pack a picnic lunch by the waves. Stop by some Galveston hotspots along the way. Our local beach has so much to offer even if you don’t dip those toes in the water.
Scavenger Hunt
Look on Pinterest for easy nature scavenger hunts that can be done at a local park. Meet kids and moms for a picnic lunch then let the kids run free searching for items on the list. You can also have kids paint rocks to leave on trails or other playground spots. It’s always fun to find these treasures on a park day!
Nerf Gun Wars
Boys and girls alike love a good Nerf Gun battle. Each kid at your summer play date can bring their favorite toy while the adults put together easy games. Try and knock cups off the fence or play a game of Capture the Flag. Make sure to keep water handy and get in on the action, too!
Bowling
When the heat is too much, take the fun indoors. Check your local bowling alley for good times {and possible COVID precautions} to take your little ones. Houston has many different bowling alleys, so research some new spots for all those strikes!
Art Party
Check out your local art supply store for sales on craft goodies. Plan a tie dye play date and let the kids make t-shirts. Pick up a canvas bag from the store and paint away. The kids can use the bags for pool days or to pack their road-trip essentials.
We would love to hear more summer play date ideas to beat the boredom blues. Bonus if they keep you cool and out of the Houston heat. Happy Summer!
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