toddler summer essentials

These summer days can get longgg. So we like to be prepped and ready. With 6 kids between the two of us, we’ve tested out a lot of things over the years. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite toddler summer essentials… from outdoor toys to practical favorites and most-loved summer books. These are the things we use on repeat all season long.

Pool/splash pad/water play

We love a swimsuit with a big more coverage so it’s a little easier to keep skin protected without constantly worrying about sunscreen reapplication. A hooded towel is so easy to throw on to keep them cozy and these googles are adorable and work well.

Yard / park play / Beach

Bubbles and a good water table help provide hours of entertainment. We also love a good sand toy set and garden tools. And a little picnic table and basketball hoop are things we’ve gotten years of use from.

This little tent comes in 2 cute options (can’t decide our fav!), it and would be fun for indoor our outdoor play. Kids love a cozy spot!

We’ve got more to share and you can shop all of our favorites here:

favorite summer BOOKS for TODDLERS AND PRESCHOOLERS

One thing we love about seasonal books and routines is how naturally they build language. When kids experience something in real life and then hear it in a story, it helps build vocabulary, understanding, and connection.

Ice Cream Face >> Maisy Learns to Swim >> The Watermelon Seed >>

We hope you’ll grab a book and head outside (unless you’re in Arizona. In that case, grab a book and make a fort in the air conditioning).

Join us in songs + stories!

If you need a minute in the air conditioning or want something to listen to in the car, we hope you’ll try Songs+Stories.

You’ll get access to storytime videos and podcast episodes, perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. It’s kind of like library story time, but taught by by pediatric SLPs (us!).

Happy summer, friends! Hope you’re able to fit in lots of fun during these warm months.

💛 in it with you,

Katie + Carly