How to Make Memories With Your Toddler: Summer Bucket List

Summer Bucket List for Mom and Toddler

Summer is coming and I personally can’t wait to get out and make some memories with my toddler! I’ve put together this fun summer bucket list for moms and toddlers (although dads and older kiddos can get in on the action too!) to have some fun. If you missed it, you can also check out my Spring Toddler Activity post as well!

Update: there are now 30 summer bucket list activities to try with your little one. I’ve also made a free printable to check things off of your summer bucket list.

Visit a Splash Pad

We are lucky to have some free splash pads around town we can use. My toddler loves playing in the spray, and it’s a nice alternative to swimming (which is more me holding him in the water the whole time!) 

Build a Sand Castle

You don’t need to hit the beach to build a castle! kinetic sand is a great alternative AND it’s less messy and reusable!

Make S’mores

Build a campfire or make them in the kitchen! I’m not a fan of chocolate, so I love using white chocolate and cinnamon Graham crackers, or making unicorn s’mores!

Go Camping

Whether you visit a park or set up a tent in your backyard, camping is a fun summer experience your toddler will love. You can even camp in your living room! Grab pillows, blankets, and a faux campfire and have fun!

Visit a Museum

Get some culture on at an art museum or look for a science museum. They usually have interactive areas for children, and it’s a great way to beat the heat (or rain!) for a day.

Go Hiking

There are many free parks and outdoor areas with walking or hiking trails. You can also look into getting a season pass for state or national parks. 

Mom hack: Find a trail that makes a loop so you end up back where you started (hopefully near your car!) be sure to pack snacks and water to stay hydrated. 

Have a Slip & Slide Party

A slip and slide is great for reusable fun. I loved running through sprinklers and sliding when I was little. I am so excited to try it this year with my son!

Plant a Garden

Get in touch with Mother Nature and try to grow some food or pretty flowers! Give your toddler a spray bottle to water plants in pots or set your hose nozzle to a gentle settle for larger plots. 

Go to a Fair

Check out the exhibits, eat some fried food, and get silly at the fair! Whether it is a state fair or traveling attraction, your kiddo will have a blast!

Try Face Painting

There are so many face painting kits to choose from! Choose a design from a book or freehand your creation. Let your kiddo paint your face as well! This activity will have you both giggling.

Check Out a New Playground

Instead of going to the same playground you always go to, try one on the other side of town or even up the street! This will keep your toddler from getting bored and give you a nice change of scenery. 

Go Swimming

Hot weather means I want to be by the water as often as possible. I’ve put together a list of some of the CUTEST toddler bathing suits for your little one. Check it out!

Play in the Sprinklers

As mentioned above, I loved sprinklers and slides when I was little. We got my son this sprinkler last year and he loves trying to throw the balls in without getting wet!

Visit a Zoo

My child LOVES telling me what noises all the animals make. Let your kiddo experience wild creatures up close at a nearby zoo. 

Get Ice Cream

After a busy day in the sun, there is no better way to beat the heat than with ice cream. Whether you are a soft serve or hand dipped family (my house is divided, my husband and I CANNOT agree!), get some cones and enjoy!

Have a Movie Night

Spread out some blankets and snuggle up with a kid-friendly movie. Don’t forget the snacks!

Catch Fireflies

Some of my modest childhood memories are of trying to catch fireflies at dusk with my brother. Start a sweet tradition by trying to catch some with your little one!

Have a Water Balloon Fight

What screams ‘summer’ more than a water balloon fight?? These quick filling balloon kits are great for filling a lot of balloons in a hurry. Or you could go the less wasteful route with these reusable water balloons. Your toddler is sure to have a blast trying to get mama wet!

Go on a Bike Ride

Strap on the training wheels or take your toddler for a ride with a toddler bike attachment. You’ll show your kid the importance of physical activity and have a blast doing it! 

I’ve even seen parents attach bike trailers for multiple kiddos. 

Visit an Aquarium

Aquariums are a great way to beat the heat and learn something new! At any age, aquariums have something entertaining, but it sure is fun to see a toddler explore.

Play With Sidewalk Chalk

Let your inner-Picasso shine and decorate the front walk! This is a great activity that can be done over and over all summer long!

Go to an Outdoor Concert

Many cities have free concerts during the summer. Find a child-appropriate one and let your toddler discover the thrill of live music.

Watch Fireworks

The summer holidays are a great time to catch a fireworks show. We we lucky enough to visit the beach during the 4th of July last year, and my son LOVED watching the pretty lights from the beach.

Go to an Outdoor Sporting Event

Catch a baseball game, tennis match, or another sport this summer. Your kiddo may fall in love with the game (or at least the food, hello hotdogs and lemonade!)

Blow Bubbles

Get a bubble machine and give your toddler hours of summer fun! This is great for those days where its too hot to be outside for long but you still need to get your kiddo out of the house.

Make a Birdfeeder

Need a rainy day activity to cross of your bucket list? Make a birdfeeder to hang in the yard. Your toddler will lvoe watching from the window to see who comes a-snacking!

Play in the Rain

As long as there is no thunder or lightning, have fun getting wet with your kiddo. Splash in the puddles, spin around and dance, and HAVE FUN!

Make Popsicles

There are several recipes online to choose from, but they’re all pretty simple. Freeze your favorite fruits in juice and voila! a sweet treat for those hot summer days.

Read Books Outside

Find a shady tree and read stories. Practice letters or make up stories as well!

Make Lemonade

Beat the heat and have some fun making lemonade together! This is a great way to start having your little one help out in the kitchen.

Take all summer to complete this bucket list or try to tackle them all in a fun-filled week! Be sure to tag me on Instagram if you try any of these fun activities. 

What would you add to this summer bucket list? Let me know in the comments!