This Summer, Beat the Heat and COVID! Ideas for Fun Things to Do

When You Go Out

• See the sunrise or the city come to life: If you live in an area that tends to have hot afternoons, get out before it heats up! Take in the colors or downtown coming to life in the early hours. Once things are bustling, head back inside and treat yourself to some ice-cold water.
• Visit a splash pad: Kids love splash pads, which have exploded in popularity in recent years. Roll up pant legs, take off shoes and sandals, and dash with them through the cooling water. If clothes get wet, make sure to keep an extra outfit in a waterproof bag.
• Change up your picnics: Love picnics? Swap them for simple breakfasts or brunches under an umbrella in the park. Have each friend bring one element to keep eaters cool—and full. Fruit salad or yogurt parfaits are always a hit!
• Get out the kiddie pool or DIY a slip and slide: This is the perfect summer to read while dunking your feet in a kiddie pool. Keep youngsters entertained with a DIY slip and slide. A tarp, a hose and some dish soap can make for a fun afternoon—just be sure to set up in a grassy area.
• Treat yourself: Give into the ice cream truck’s jingle at least once and enjoy a frozen treat. Make sure you have plenty of napkins and wet wipes! If you are in a group, have each person get something different and then share pieces of what you got. Individual bowls, plus plastic spoons and knives, can be helpful for this.

When You Stay In

• Have a summer movie marathon: Find a handful of movies that you want to watch, but have not had the time to. Bonus if they take place during the summer. Take a weekend and watch them all. Grab the popcorn and get ready!
• Dance it out: Learn a new dance step or a trendy TikTok dance. Are you brave enough to perform it on video? Or, at least for the rest of the family?
• Make no-cook recipes: From simple salads to no-bake cookies, you can get creative in the kitchen even when temperatures are sweltering. Keep an eye on how things feel inside and try to cook in the morning, if possible.
• Get into puzzles: Check out puzzles from the library or aim to do the daily newspaper crossword puzzle. By summer’s end, take note of your accomplishments. If the puzzle has a lot of pieces, feel free to divide and conquer to get it done!
• Catch up with friends: If you are feeling hot, chances are your friends are, too. Take advantage of being inside to finally catch up. Life is busy, but use the summer to slow down.
• Identify cooling areas: Many cities and towns have cooling areas where people can go to cool off and get water during heat waves. Know where your nearest ones are in case you need to use them. Ask your local community centers or libraries if they offer special services once temperatures increase. Share what you learn with neighbors and friends, especially those who are older or at increased risk of heatstroke.

As the summer heats up, spread the word. Did you find this useful? Feel free to bookmark or post to your timeline for reference later!