Summer with little ones can be magical, but let’s be honest—it can also be a lot. Whether you’re trying to limit screen time, fill long afternoons, or just make it to dinnertime without a meltdown, having the right activities on hand can make all the difference. Here are three tried-and-true favorites that help keep the kids engaged (and parents sane) during those sunny, stretched-out days.
1. Sensory Kits from Young, Wild and Friedman
If you haven’t discovered sensory kits yet, you’re in for a treat. Young, Wild and Friedman offers thoughtfully curated boxes packed with sensory materials like dough, slime, sand, and themed toys. Each kit is an invitation for imaginative play—no prep required. Whether your child is building a construction zone, making cupcakes out of glitter dough, or pretending to explore the ocean floor, these kits offer hours of quiet, creative fun. Best of all, they’re compact and easy to take on the go—perfect for road trips, beach rentals, or just an afternoon on the back porch. https://www.youngwildandfriedman.com/
2. Little Passports Subscription Boxes
For kids who love to learn, explore, and get hands-on, Little Passports is a total win. Their subscription boxes cater to ages 3–10 and cover everything from world geography to science experiments, cooking, and nature adventures. Each month, your child receives a new theme filled with engaging activities, books, and fun surprises. Not only do these boxes keep boredom at bay, but they also sneak in a little education—without feeling like school. It’s a great way to add structure to your summer while still keeping things lighthearted and fun. https://www.littlepassports.com/
3. Building Time with LEGOs and K’NEX
You can’t go wrong with a classic. LEGOs and K’NEX have stood the test of time for good reason—they’re endlessly entertaining, encourage problem-solving, and inspire big-time creativity. Whether your child is following instructions or going rogue with their own wild designs, building sets can keep them focused and content for long stretches. For younger kids, there are age-appropriate versions like LEGO Duplo, while older kids can tackle more complex builds or even get into STEM-inspired sets with motors and moving parts. LEGOs: https://www.lego.com/en-us K'NEX: https://www.basicfun.com/knex/
Making Summer a Little Easier
When the days are long and the to-do list is longer, having a few reliable, enriching activities in your back pocket can make all the difference. These three options—sensory kits from Young, Wild and Friedman, Little Passports subscription boxes, and classic building sets like LEGOs and K’NEX—offer a mix of creativity, learning, and independent play. So here’s to fewer meltdowns, more quiet moments, and a summer full of discovery and fun.