Rising temperatures and rising tempers don’t make for a good combination. Thankfully, a little ingenuity will go a long way to take the edge off summer parenting.
#1. Behold, the secret to drip-free ice popsicles: GELATIN.
#2. Keep snacks organized with a bead container.
Find out more here.
#3. Don’t throw out those containers of baby wipes. Use them to carry toys, craft supplies, and snacks, instead.
#4. Use Press ‘n Seal to make a spill-proof cup. Perfect for road trips!
#5. Glue magnets to drinking cups to keep hot and thirsty kids hydrated.
More here.
#6. Turn a large sheet into a huge art canvas.
#7. Soothe itchy mosquito bites with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
Get the instructions here.
#8. Create your own magnetic travel games using old candy tins.
#9. Serve condiments in muffin tins.
It’s convenient, and helps you cut down on dishwashing, too.
#10. Label popsicle sticks with activities for inspiration when boredom strikes.
Have fun brainstorming ideas together.
#11. Create a giant game board right on your deck.
Here are some game ideas.
#12. Use cupcake liners to keep popsicle drips in check.
#13. Traveling? Use ziplock bags to organize your kids’ clothing by day.
The bags can also be used to store wet clothing.
#14. Make your own bubble station for easy refills.
#15. Another use for cupcake liners? Keeping juice bug-free.
#16. Freeze aloe vera in ice-cube trays for a more convenient way to soothe sunburn.
#17. Create an old-fashioned sundial to give kids a fun way to tell time.
#18. Keep fruits that bruise easily in egg cartons.
#19. Make your own track for fun soap-boat races.
#20. Make your own drying rack with PVC pipes and keep it by the poolside.
#21. Get kids to prepare their own cereal breakfast by making your own cereal breakfast station.
More here.
#22. Say goodbye to sandy blankets by using fitted sheets. Genius!
#23. Keep off the damp grass while stargazing by putting blankets inside a blown-up pool.
Why didn’t we think of this before?
#24. Remove damp sand from hands and feet with baby powder.
#25. Wash toys and shoes in the dishwasher.
It even washes those hard-to-reach spots. Here’s how.
#26. Keep your trunk organized by storing summer essentials in shoe sorters.
#27. Use this recipe to create giant bubbles.
More here.
#28. The best way to keep your valuables safe at the beach (or any public area).
#29. Fill a cooler or bucket with frozen balloons to keep drinks cold.
#30. Keep pesky mosquitoes at bay by making your own bug-repellent bracelets.
