Summer is here, and what better way to keep your kids entertained, cool, and active than with some backyard water fun? But before we dive into our DIY ideas, let’s start with a few basic tips to ensure that your little ones stay safe and comfortable during their outdoor adventures:
- Sun protection: Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and don’t forget to reapply every couple of hours, especially after water play.
- Hydration: Encourage your kids to drink water frequently to stay hydrated in the heat.
- Supervision: Always watch your children while they’re playing in or near water, even if it’s just a shallow kiddie pool.
Now that we’ve covered the safety basics let’s get to the fun part! We’ve compiled a list of beginner, medium, and advanced DIY water activities to turn your backyard into a refreshing oasis.
Beginner: Slip ‘n Slide 💧
This classic summer activity is easy to set up and guarantees hours of fun for kids and adults alike!
What you’ll need:
- A plastic tarp ( or you can buy a slip-n-slide on Amazon)
- A long, flat stretch of grass
- Garden hose
- Baby or dish soap (optional)
- Straw bales for the end of the tarp
Instructions:
- Roll out the tarp on the grass, making sure there are no rocks or sharp objects underneath.
- If desired, squirt some baby or dish soap along the length of the slide for extra slipperiness.
- Connect the garden hose and let the water flow onto the slide.
- Place straw bales at the end if needed
- Take turns running and sliding down the wet surface
Medium: Water Balloon Fight 🎈
A water balloon fight is a surefire way to keep everyone cool and laughing. To make it easier for the kids, consider purchasing Zuru Bunch O Balloons. You fill them, and they self-seal. Wholesale clubs like BJ’s has a better deal on the Zuru Balloons.
Not a wholesale club member? Sign up for discounts to all three here.
What you’ll need:
- Zuru Bunch O Balloons
- Water balloons
- Bucket or container
Instructions:
- Fill water balloons with the hose and then shake to seal the balloons. If you are using the traditional water balloons, you will have to tie them.
- Divide the balloons evenly among the participants and store them in buckets, wagons or containers.
- Establish boundaries for the playing area and set any necessary safety rules (e.g., no throwing balloons at faces).
- Let the water balloon battle begin!
Advanced: DIY Water Wall 💦🔨
A water wall is an interactive and educational project that will keep your kids engaged and entertained.
What you’ll need:
- Pallet or wood, or fence panel to create the wall ( Pallets are easy, and you can usually find them for free)
- Assorted PVC pipes, funnels, and tubing
- Zip ties or screws
- Garden hose or watering can
Instructions:
- Cut the PVC pipes into various lengths and arrange them on the plywood or fence panel, creating a maze-like design.
- Secure the pipes and other elements to the surface using zip ties or screws.
- Attach the hose or watering can to the top of the water wall, allowing water to flow through the pipes and funnels.
- Encourage your kids to experiment with different ways to pour water onto the wall and watch how it travels through the maze!
Check out Pinterest for so many different kinds of DIY water walls to make.
Get the Step by Step on this water all over on the blog Learnwithplayathome!
These are just a few examples of the countless backyard water activities you can create with a little time. Feel free to mix and match ideas, and don’t be afraid to get creative!
Remember, the goal is to have fun, stay cool, and make lasting memories with your kids this summer. Happy splashing! 🌊