How to Survive a Florida Summer as a Mom: Tips and Tricks!
Hey there, fellow moms! ☀️ As summer rolls in here in sunny Orlando, we all know what that means: heat, humidity, and a whole lot of outdoor fun! But let’s be real—surviving a Florida summer as a mom can be a challenge. Between keeping the kids entertained and avoiding the dreaded “I’m bored” complaints, it can feel overwhelming. But fear not! I’ve got some tried-and-true tips and tricks to make this summer enjoyable for both you and your little ones.
1. Embrace the Early Mornings
The Florida sun is no joke! One of my best tips is to embrace those early mornings. Get the kids up and out the door before the heat kicks in. I remember one summer morning, I took Lily and Jimmy to Lake Eola Park at 8 AM. The air was still cool, and we had the playground to ourselves! We ran around, fed the swans, and even enjoyed a little picnic breakfast. It was a perfect start to the day, and we beat the heat!
2. Create a Backyard Oasis
When the temperatures soar, sometimes the best place to be is right at home. Set up a backyard oasis with a kiddie pool, sprinklers, or even a DIY water slide. One weekend, I filled up our small inflatable pool, and the kids had a blast splashing around while I sipped iced tea in the shade. It was a simple setup, but they were entertained for hours! Plus, it kept them cool and happy.
3. Plan Indoor Activities
Let’s face it: there will be days when the heat is just too much. Have a list of indoor activities ready to go! We love visiting the Orlando Science Center or the local library for storytime. Just last week, I took Emma and Lily to a crafting session at the library. They made the cutest summer-themed art projects, and I enjoyed some quiet time with my coffee. It’s a win-win!
4. Stay Hydrated and Snack Smart
In the heat, hydration is key! Always keep a water bottle handy, and encourage the kids to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. I found that adding slices of fruit to their water makes it a bit more exciting. Jimmy loves lemon and mint in his water—he calls it “fancy water.” Also, keep healthy snacks on hand, like frozen grapes or yogurt popsicles. They’re refreshing and keep the kids energized!
5. Get Creative with Summer Camps
If you’re looking for some much-needed “me time,” consider signing the kids up for summer camps. There are so many options around Orlando, from arts and crafts to sports. Lily attended a local dance camp last summer, and she loved every minute of it! While she was busy dancing, I got some quiet time to catch up on errands and maybe even binge-watch a show. It’s a great way to keep them active while giving you a little break!
6. Explore Local Splash Pads
One of my favorite summer outings is hitting up the splash pads around town. They’re usually free or very low-cost, and the kids can run around and cool off. I remember a particularly hot afternoon when I took Emma and Jimmy to the splash pad at Dr. Phillips Park. They squealed with delight as they ran through the water jets, and I was able to chat with other moms while keeping an eye on them. It was a refreshing escape from the heat!
7. Plan Evening Outings
Take advantage of the cooler evenings! After dinner, we often head to local parks for evening strolls or family bike rides. Just last week, we went to the Orlando City Soccer Club’s free open practice. It was a fantastic way to enjoy the evening while watching some exciting soccer. The kids loved cheering and getting a glimpse of the players.
8. Set Up a Summer Reading Challenge
To keep the kids engaged, set up a summer reading challenge! Create a fun chart with rewards for every book they finish. We’ve done this for the past few summers, and it keeps the kids motivated to read. Lily was so excited last year when she finished her first chapter book! We even had a little family movie night as a reward, watching a film based on one of her books. It was a great way to blend fun with learning!
9. Don’t Forget Self-Care
Lastly, don’t forget to take care of yourself! Schedule some “me time” whenever you can, even if it’s just a few minutes of quiet with a good book. I love to sneak in a quick yoga session while the kids play outside. It helps me recharge and tackle the day ahead. Remember, a happy mom means a happy family!
So there you have it—my tips for surviving a Florida summer as a mom! With a little planning and creativity, we can make the most of this sunny season while keeping our cool. Embrace the heat, enjoy the sunshine, and most importantly, have fun with your little ones. Here’s to a fantastic summer ahead! 🌴