The Lazy Days of Summer: Simple Ways to Stay Cool & Connect as a Family

Dr. Deb Zupito

Summer often gets a reputation for being packed with activities, camps, vacations, and to-do lists but can we press pause for a moment? Remember the lazy days of summer? The ones filled with sticky popsicles, barefoot adventures, and backyard giggles? Those slow, simple summer moments matter, maybe now more than ever.

And let’s be honest, these hot days can leave all of us (especially the kiddos) feeling a little wilted. But staying cool and making memories doesn’t require expensive outings or elaborate plans. Sometimes, the magic happens right in your own backyard with everyday items and a little creativity.

Here are a few of my favorite simple, affordable ways to stay cool and enjoy family time this summer; no plane tickets or Pinterest perfection required.

Backyard Water Fun (No Pool Needed!)

Sponge Toss or Sponge TagGrab a few dollar store sponges, dunk them in a bucket of water, and let the giggles begin. Think of it as a gentler, backyard-friendly water balloon fight!

DIY Car Wash (For Bikes & Toys)Set up a “car wash” station with sponges, bubbles, and water. Let the kids wash their bikes, ride-on toys, things that just need cleaning, or even the family dog if they’re brave enough.

Sprinkler ShenanigansThe classic never fails. Hook up a sprinkler and turn your yard into an instant water park. Bonus points for running through it with your kids, they’ll remember that more than anything.

Frozen Toy RescueFreeze small plastic toys in a muffin tin or ice cube tray. Hand the kids some water and tools (safe kitchen utensils work) and let them chip, melt, and rescue their treasures.

Cool Treats & Sensory Fun

Make Your Own PopsiclesJuice, yogurt, or blended fruit — let the kids help pour and freeze. It’s a snack and an activity rolled into one.

Shaving Cream & Ice Sensory BinFill a bin with ice cubes and shaving cream. It’s cool, messy, and full of giggles. Bonus? It cleans right off with the hose.

Water Table… or Storage Bin Water TableNo fancy table? No problem. A large storage bin with water, cups, spoons, and toy animals turns into an instant splash zone for little hands.

Simple Backyard Chill Time

Blanket Fort or Shade TentDrape sheets over chairs or a clothesline, add pillows, and enjoy some shady downtime with books, snacks, or quiet play.

Cloud Watching or Star GazingSlow summer evenings are perfect for laying on a blanket and spotting shapes in the clouds or constellations at night if the kids can stay up.

Backyard PicnicEverything tastes better outside. Grab sandwiches, fruit, and maybe those homemade popsicles and enjoy a low-key meal under the sun or stars.

The Real Summer Secret? Connection Over Perfection

These long, hot days can feel overwhelming, but they’re also sprinkled with little opportunities for joy, curiosity, and connection. You don’t need an extravagant vacation or a perfectly curated Instagram moment to make summer memories. Your kids crave your presence, not perfection.

So, let the grass stains happen, let the popsicle juice drip, and let yourself slow down. The lazy days of summer won’t last forever, but the memories will.

You’ve got this…enjoy the messy, magical, wonderfully simple summer ahead.