As the days get a little shorter and the back-to-school buzz begins, there’s still time to soak up the final golden moments of summer. At Kare-A-Lot Childcare, we believe in making the most of every season—especially the carefree, sunshine-filled days of late summer.
The transition into a new school year can feel fast-paced and busy, so why not slow down and enjoy some intentional, joy-filled moments with your preschooler before the leaves begin to fall? Whether you have a free afternoon or just a weekend to play, here are some fun, simple, and screen-free ideas to fill your end-of-summer bucket list with laughter and memories.
1. Backyard Camping Adventure
No need to pack up the car or drive far—a backyard campsite is just as magical for little ones! Pitch a tent or create a cozy fort with blankets and string lights. Bring out sleeping bags, flashlights, and a few bedtime books.
Bonus activities:
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Look for stars or fireflies after dark
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Roast marshmallows over a small firepit (or make s’mores in the microwave for a safer option)
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Tell silly, preschool-friendly “spooky” stories together
It’s the perfect way to introduce the fun of camping in a safe and familiar environment.
2. Popsicle Painting
Cool down and get creative with this colorful, mess-friendly art project! Make your own frozen paint pops by pouring washable paint into an ice cube tray, adding a craft stick to each section, and freezing overnight.
Lay out a large sheet of paper outside and let your preschooler create melting masterpieces in the sun.
Pro tip: You can also freeze natural fruit juice for a safer, taste-safe alternative for younger kiddos who like to sample their supplies!
3. Water Balloon Games
Water balloons are a classic summer hit—but there are so many fun ways to use them beyond the typical water fight.
Try these ideas:
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Target Toss: Draw chalk circles on the sidewalk and try to hit the bullseye
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Color Mix Splash: Fill balloons with food-colored water and let kids explore color blending as they pop
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Water Balloon Relay: Carry balloons in a spoon and see who can cross the yard the fastest without dropping it
Just don’t forget the towels—and a camera for those giggles!
4. Nature Scavenger Hunt
Head to a local park or even your own backyard for a preschool-friendly scavenger hunt. Create a list or picture chart of things to find: a pinecone, something yellow, a bird, a smooth rock, or something that smells nice.
This activity encourages observation skills, movement, and curiosity—and it’s great for helping children reconnect with nature before fall arrives.
Make it extra fun: Bring a little basket for collecting treasures or have your child take photos of what they find.
5. Lemonade Stand or Pretend Cafe
Set up a small lemonade stand or pretend snack café with your child. They can “sell” lemonade, fruit kabobs, or homemade popsicles to family members or stuffed animal customers.
It’s a fun opportunity to practice counting, pouring, role-playing, and sharing—all wrapped into a creative, sunny afternoon activity.
Make the Most of These Sweet Summer Days
At Kare-A-Lot Childcare, we cherish the magic of childhood and the everyday joys that come with it. These last weeks of summer are a beautiful time to play freely, connect as a family, and celebrate the wonder of being little.
So go ahead—soak up that sunshine, chase bubbles in the yard, and enjoy a sticky popsicle or two. Fall will be here soon enough, and there’s no better time than now to build memories your child will treasure.
Happy end-of-summer from all of us at Kare-A-Lot!