Summer Bucket List for Toddlers-Kindergarteners

I have a confession to make. In my twelve years of motherhood I have never once made a seasonal bucket list! I’ve saved many on Pinterest of course, but have never actually attempted to compile one of my own. But summer is here and it’s time to have some sun-filled, fun-filled adventures!

It’s my 5 year old’s last summer before starting “big kid” school and I really want to soak up the summer magic, and what better way to do so than by creating a summer bucket list? Not just any list but a summer bucket list made with toddlers & preschoolers in mind (this summer my youngest are 2 and 5)

GET YOUR FREE PRINTABLE SUMMER BUCKET LIST (With more ideas than below!)

I welcome you to print and use this list, or simply use it as a starting point for creating your own! I’m all for kiddos having quiet time to relax and time to be bored, but here is our summer bucket list for when we want to add extra adventure, exploration, and joy to our summer. Here I go a little more in depth with the ideas, but you’ll find so much more on the list!

• Splash-tastic Water Play
  Nothing beats the summer heat like water play! We are lucky to have access to two pools in our community and we like to go 2-3 times a week in the summer (or more!). To make this easier I keep a beach bag like this loaded with our towels and goggles, a second bag with our swimsuits and a splash-proof holder for my phone. After swimming I hang everything to dry on a rack on our patio so it’s ready for our next splash! If you don’t have access to a pool, invest in a good kiddie pool that will get you through summer splashings and beyond. Little ones who may be afraid of swimming can have tons of fun splashing in a kiddie pool! As always, never leave your little alone by water, even a kiddie pool. Safety first! You can find my whole list of Poolside/Beach favorites on my Amazon storefront.

• Sandy Seashells Adventure
  Take a trip to the beach and introduce your toddler to the wonders of sandcastles, seashells, and gentle waves…no beach around? Go to your local playground sandbox! If your beaches aren’t the best for collecting shells or your best bet is a sandbox, drop by your local craft store or add this bag of seashells to your cart and hide them in the sand for your little one to find. Best summer hack ever!

• Nature Walks and Picnics
  Embark on nature walks through local parks or nature trails. Let your kiddos explore and discover the wonders of the great outdoors-and don’t be afraid to get messy! Identify different plants, flowers, and birds along the way. Pack a picnic filled with your toddler’s favorite snacks and enjoy an outdoor meal together, there’s just something special about lunch under the sun. For my preschoolers I use these easy-to-clean silicone bento boxes. They love them!

• Sensory Play with Frozen Toys
  This one is perfect for those HOT days! Cool down and engage your toddler’s senses with ice play. Fill a tray with ice cubes and let your little one explore the sensation of ice melting in their hands. Add a few drops of food coloring to create vibrant colors. You can also hide small toys in the ice cubes for a fun and icy treasure hunt! This large ice cube tray is perfect for the job.

• S’Mores Party
  Who doesn’t love this classic summertime treat? While a toasting marshmallows over an open fire is preferred, it’s not an easy option for everyone and it can be nice to not have to worry about tiny kids around open flame. We love using this mini tabletop fire pit or you can even make S’mores in your microwave in a pinch (though on top of aluminum foil in a toaster oven is better!) Let your youngest help with assembly and if they are old enough keep a watchful eye as they roast their own Marshmallows. If you make them in the microwave, keep watch and see how big the marshmallows grow!

• DIY Story time in the Park:
  Pack your favorite outdoor blanket, a selection of your toddler’s favorite books, and head to a local park. Find a shady spot and enjoy a peaceful story time session together. This is a great weekly activity you can pair with a trip to the library to select several books that fit a theme.

I hope this bucket list helps you embrace the beauty of summer and cherish these precious moments with your little ones as they explore, learn, and grow. Let this summer be one they (and you!) will remember for years to come!

You can find everything you need for the above adventures on my Amazon storefront. If you order through my storefront I receive a small commission that helps keep BlissfullyMommy up and running 🫶🏼

Download your free Printable Summer Bucket List now!

First Name

Email address:

Leave this field empty if you’re human: