Summer's not quite here yet, but you can never be too prepared!
If your house is anything like mine, the kids are bouncing off the walls, desperate for something to do, (why does winter bring out the restlessness in them all!?).
Instead of letting them turn the living room into a makeshift water park (I've learned my lesson with that one), why not take a look at these fun water activities for families?
Whether you're after a garden splash session or a full-on seaside adventure, here are some tried-and-tested ways to keep your little whirlwinds entertained and cool.
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Make a Splash in Your Garden
You don't need a beach or a water park to have a soaking good time—your own garden will do just fine. We have an array of summer themed activities including an inflatable bouncy castle with water slide, an Intex pool (who doesn't) and a few slip and slides for those who are feeling particularly brave.
Every day was a new challenge: who could make the biggest splash? Who could balance on a pool float the longest? And, my personal "favourite", who could drench Dad first?
If a pool isn't your thing, grab some water balloons, fill up a few buckets, and let chaos reign. A good game of water balloon baseball or even a DIY slip-and-slide (bin bags and a hosepipe work wonders) is enough to keep the whole family entertained.
Last year the local Cubs group had a full on water balloon battle with sponges, water guns and we provided 300+ water balloons—which in retrospect wasn't the best idea as the clean-up after was a pain (but they all had a wonderful time)!
Explore Local Water Parks
If you've got an aqua water park or paddling pool nearby, it's worth the trip. We took the kids to the one at Alton Towers last summer, and I can safely say I haven't heard that much squealing and laughter since they discovered Alexa can sing you Happy Birthday.
From splash pads for the little ones to towering slides for the daredevils, there's usually something for everyone. Just don't forget the sunscreen—no one wants to be the parent who forgets and ends up having to keep the kids in the shade like Bandit.
Take a Quick Trip to the Beach
There's something magical about a beach day. The first time we took our youngest to the seaside, they were more interested in eating the sand than building castles with it (classic toddler behaviour), but now, it's one of their favourite places.
Whether it's paddling in the shallows, digging for treasure (read: random pebbles, bottle caps and crab legs), or the simple joy of jumping over waves, there's plenty to do.
If you're feeling adventurous, why not bring a bodyboard or try paddleboarding? Or, if your kids are anything like mine, just let them run wild until they inevitably collapse in a heap of sandy exhaustion.
Enjoy a Day on a Boat
If you're lucky enough to have access to a boat—or can rent one—this is one of the best ways to spend a summer's day. We once did punting in Cambridge for families, which, in theory, was a peaceful experience.
In reality, it was an hour of my kids trying to "accidentally" nudge the boat to see if I'd fall in.
Whether you're hiring a little rowboat, going for a canal ride, or setting sail on something bigger—don't forget the snacks (and the pre-activity potty break), because nothing makes kids hungrier than being five minutes into an activity.
Go Canoeing or Kayaking
For a slightly more active day out, canoeing or kayaking is a winner. There's something about gliding through the water that instantly calms even the most hyperactive or neurodiverse of children (for a little while, at least).
If you find somewhere with clear water, spotting fish beneath the surface adds an extra layer of excitement. If you're worried about the kids getting tired quickly, opt for a double kayak— you'll be doing most of the paddling anyway.
Try Fishing
Fishing is one of those activities that either becomes a cherished childhood memory or the most patience-testing experience of your life.
Personally, I never had much luck with it, but I'll never forget the time I went fishing off the side of a boat in the Maldives. I somehow managed to hook an eel, and it took three of us to reel it in. Just as we were making progress, the resistance suddenly disappeared. Feeling victorious, we hauled in our catch—only to find that I'd managed to land what was probably a quarter of the eel I'd originally snagged.
That said, fishing is still a brilliant way to spend the day, soak up nature, and, if fortune favours you, bring home dinner. (Though, let's be honest, more often than not, it just means stopping at the chippy on the way home.)
Go Wild Swimming
If you fancy an adventure, try wild swimming. These spots often feel like something out of a storybook—crystal-clear water, surrounded by greenery, and far from the chaos of crowded pools. Just make sure to check how deep the water is before letting the kids jump in, because "surprise deep end" is not the kind of memory you want to create.
FAQs: Keeping Cool with Water Fun This Summer
What's the best water activity for toddlers?
Toddlers and deep water? Not the best combo. Stick to splash pads, paddling pools, or even just a bucket and some cups in the garden. If you're near a beach, let them splash at the shoreline or dig in the sand. Basically, if they're wet, giggling, and not eating too much of the beach, you're winning.
What should I pack for a family beach trip?
Aside from the obvious (swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and snacks), don't forget hats, extra water bottles, and something to keep the kids busy—buckets, spades, and a kite are always a hit. A beach tent is great if you want some shade (or just a quiet place to eat crisps in peace while the kids run wild).
How do I stop my kids getting bored at the pool?
Honestly, they probably won't. But if they start moaning, bring in the games! Try races, underwater treasure hunts, or the timeless classic—who can make the biggest splash (spoiler: it's always Dad). Floaties, dive rings, and water balloons can turn an average swim into an all-out battle for pool dominance.
Where's the best place to go kayaking or canoeing with kids in the UK?
If you fancy a bit of paddling, places like the River Wye, the Norfolk Broads, and Windermere in the Lake District are great for families. Loads of rental spots offer kid-friendly kayaks, and some even have clear-bottom ones so you can see what's lurking beneath (hopefully just fish and not your lost sunglasses).
How do I teach my kids water safety without scaring them?
Keep it simple: always swim where you can see them, don't let them go too far out, and teach them what to do if they get into trouble (like floating on their back instead of panicking). A few swimming lessons go a long way, and places like the RNLI and Swim England websites have loads of great tips to help keep them safe without turning them into tiny lifeguards-in-training.
Final Splash
At the end of the day, summer isn't about where you go—it's about the moments you make. Whether it's a full-on water park extravaganza or just a garden hosepipe battle, the best memories are the ones filled with laughter, a bit of chaos, and inevitably a very soggy dad.
So, grab the towels, slap on the sunscreen, and get ready to make a splash. Just don't let the kids see where you hide the water balloons, or you'll be filling them up in the bath in winter like I do!
