When the #sun is shining and school is out, it’s the perfect time to keep little minds and hands active with engaging #summer activities! At ChildCareEd.com, we believe summer should be full of #play, discovery, and learning—especially for our youngest learners.
Here are some fun, screen- #free activity ideas to help #preschoolers make the most of summer while fostering creativity, kindness, and #early-learning skills.
Want to make art that literally pops? Kids will love experimenting with textures and colors using puffy paint! This easy DIY recipe adds a 3D twist to traditional painting and is a great #sensory experience.
Use it to decorate summer-themed shapes like suns, ice cream cones, and sea creatures.
👉 Check out the full Puffy Paint Recipe and start painting with a puff of creativity!
Summer is the season of sunshine—why not help kids spread that sunshine through acts of kindness? Encourage preschoolers to create and hand out Kindness Cards to friends, family, or even community helpers.
It’s a wonderful way to build #empathy and social-emotional skills in a way that’s simple, sweet, and meaningful.
👉 Get your printable Kindness Cards and let the kindness flow!
Grab a few pots, soil, and seeds, and let your preschoolers plant a mini garden! Whether it’s sunflowers, cherry tomatoes, or herbs, kids will be fascinated watching their plants grow. This teaches responsibility, patience, and a love for nature.
Pro tip: Create a plant-watering chart to sneak in some early #math practice!
Nothing says summer like splashing in water! Try out simple, #safe water activities like:
Ice cube painting: Freeze water with food coloring and let kids "paint" on paper.
Sponge toss: Soak sponges in water and toss them into buckets or at targets.
Mini car wash: Let kids wash toy trucks and dolls with soapy water and sponges.
All these activities promote fine motor skills, sensory exploration, and loads of giggles!
Pack a few snacks, bring a cozy blanket, and enjoy story time outside! Whether you're reading #books-about bugs, beaches, or best friends, #outdoor reading adds a magical twist to story sessions. Bonus: bring along bubbles, chalk, or a simple scavenger hunt for extra fun.
Summer doesn’t have to mean a break from learning—it just means we get to do it with more color, creativity, and sunshine! These activities blend play with purpose, giving children joyful memories and meaningful #developmental #growth.
Looking for more inspiration, educational tools, and printable resources? Visit ChildCareEd.com to explore our full library of ideas, training, and activities for #early-childhood professionals and families.
Here’s to a summer filled with laughter, learning, and a whole lot of fun!
