Jennifer Smith

The alarm clock buzzes you awake, but not before your three-year old jumps on your lower back. “Wake up, Mommy! It’s summer!” Summer. You roll over on your side and reach for your phone. You load the weather app. High of 95 today, with 90% humidity. And your husband has the car, so an impromptu lake trip is out. Your three-year-old is at staring at you expectantly from the foot of your bed. You inwardly panic and outwardly smile. And slowwwwly you put one foot down, then the other, push yourself up with your elbows, and stumble towards the kitchen to get the kids’ breakfast ready. The baby is still sleeping. You have some time to think of something (ANYTHING) to make 95 degrees and 90% humidity seem less…terrifying. Without the car. All day. Well, it’s your lucky day, mama! We’re sharing three fun ways to keep your whole family cool right at home – even if you don’t have a car! 1. Stay Inside. We know, we know – seems obvious...and boring. But why not bring some summer fun to your bathroom? Get the kids in their swimsuits and put them in a cool, almost cold bath. Add some popsicles, play some music, and you’re one step away from being on the beach! 2. Hose ‘Em Down! Never underestimate the power (or fun!) of the good ol’ fashioned garden hose. It’s like having your own splash pad in your own backyard! Got older kids? Grab a tarp (a few trash bags work too), hose it down and add some dish soap. Your own DIY slip n’ slide! 3. Water Balloon Fights You can never go wrong with a water balloon fight. Find the leftover balloons from the baby’s birthday party, fill them with water, and have at it. The kids will love helping fill the balloons too - it’s a win-win! 4. DIY Water Table Do you have an empty bucket lying around? What about the sandbox that you forgot to fill with sand? Dump some water in there and add some bath toys. Voila – a DIY water table that’s FREE and will give you at least 20 minutes to scroll through Instagram while your kids play. So there you have it - four totally free and fun activities you can do to beat the heat this summer – even if you’re stuck at home without a car. If you try any of these out, leave a comment and let us know which one! And remember – you’re doing GREAT, mama. You’ve got this!