As a dad, when summer rolls around, there’s one thing I know for sure: it’s going to be hot, and my kids are going to want to spend every second outside. While I love watching them run around under the sun, I also know that keeping them cool (and entertained) is key to staying sane during these sweltering months. That’s where water fun comes into play. Nothing beats the combination of splashing around, laughing together, and escaping the heat. Over the years, I’ve come up with a few tried-and-true water activities that never fail to keep the kids happy—and me feeling like the “fun dad.”
Here are some of the ways I turn hot summer days into unforgettable water-filled adventures with my kids.
1. The Ultimate Backyard Water Fight
There’s nothing like a good old-fashioned water fight to get everyone laughing. I usually start by pulling out water balloons, water guns, and—when I’m feeling particularly mischievous—my trusty garden hose as my “secret weapon.”
Half the fun is in the setup. We fill up as many water balloons as we can (well, the kids do… I supervise!) and stockpile them in buckets around the yard. Once the battle begins, it’s every person for themselves. My kids love teaming up against me, and let’s just say they’ve gotten pretty good at their aim over the years.
The great thing about water fights is that there’s no right or wrong way to do them. Sometimes, we play games like capture the flag with water balloons, or we set up targets to see who has the best shot. By the end, we’re all soaking wet, out of breath, and grinning from ear to ear.
2. DIY Slip ‘n Slide
Remember those plastic slip ‘n slides from your childhood? Well, I found out it’s surprisingly easy to make one at home. All you need is a long sheet of plastic tarp, some stakes to keep it in place, and a hose.
We roll the tarp out in the yard, secure it to the ground, and let the water flow. For extra fun, I add a little dish soap to make it extra slippery. The kids take turns running, sliding, and laughing hysterically as they try to outdo each other.
Sometimes, I’ll join in (because why should the kids have all the fun?), but more often than not, I’m the guy standing at the top with the hose, making sure it’s slippery enough and cheering them on as they race each other.
3. Sponge Wars
This one was born out of necessity. We didn’t have water balloons one day, so I grabbed some sponges from the kitchen and handed them out to the kids. Little did I know, I had just invented a new family favorite.
We soak the sponges in buckets of water, and the kids take turns throwing them at each other—or at me. The best part? No cleanup required. Unlike water balloons, sponges are reusable, so once the game’s over, we just wring them out and save them for next time.
To mix things up, I’ve started creating obstacle courses for the kids. They have to dodge sponge attacks while crawling under pool noodles, jumping over buckets, or running through sprinklers. It’s a workout for them and a great way to burn off their never-ending energy.
4. The Backyard Water Park
When we want a more relaxed way to cool off, I turn our backyard into a mini water park. I set up the kiddie pool, turn on the sprinkler, and place buckets, cups, and watering cans around for the kids to use.
One of their favorite things to do is create “water experiments.” They’ll pour water from one container to another, see how far the sprinkler sprays, or try to fill up the kiddie pool with the tiniest cups they can find. It’s simple, but they stay entertained for hours.
5. Water Balloon Piñata
This is a summer activity I stumbled upon while trying to come up with new ways to keep things exciting. I fill up water balloons and hang them from a tree branch or clothesline. Then, using a stick or plastic bat, the kids take turns trying to pop the balloons.
The first time I watched one of my kids connect with a balloon and get soaked by the splash, I couldn’t stop laughing. It’s like a piñata, but instead of candy, you get a refreshing (and hilarious) shower.
6. Pool Noodle Sprinkler Hack
This little trick has saved the day on more than one occasion. I take an old pool noodle, poke a bunch of holes in it, and attach it to the end of the garden hose. The result? An instant sprinkler that the kids can jump through.
They love coming up with games, like limboing under the spray, racing through it, or just dancing around in the water. Sometimes, simplicity is all you need for a memorable summer day.
7. Water Painting
Not every water activity has to involve soaking yourself. On especially hot days, my kids and I like to “paint” the driveway using water. Armed with paintbrushes, sponges, or spray bottles, we create temporary masterpieces that disappear as the water dries.
It’s a calm, creative way to spend time together, and it’s also a nice break from all the running and splashing. Plus, it’s mess-free—just water!
8. Boat Races in the Kiddie Pool
This one’s great for when we want a more low-key activity. We grab whatever we can find—plastic lids, toy boats, even leaves—and race them across the kiddie pool. The kids use straws to blow their boats forward, and I’ll make a littlecurrent with the hose to keep things interesting.
It’s a simple way to introduce a bit of competition, and it always leads to giggles when someone’s “boat” flips over or gets stuck.
9. Ice Block Treasure Hunt
This activity takes a little preparation, but it’s always worth it. The night before, I freeze small toys or coins inside a large block of ice. The next day, I give the kids tools like spoons or spray bottles with warm water and let them “excavate” the treasures.
It’s a fun mix of science and play, and it keeps them cool as they chip away at the ice. I usually set up a shady spot for this one, and I’ll join in to help them uncover the hidden treasures.
10. Family Car Wash
Who says chores can’t be fun? On particularly hot days, we turn washing the car into a family activity. Buckets, sponges, and the garden hose all make an appearance, and before long, we’re all soaked.
The kids love spraying the car—and each other—with the hose, and it’s a nice way to cool down while getting something productive done. By the end, we’re wet, the car is clean, and everyone’s had a great time.
Making Summer Memories
What I love most about these water activities is how they bring us together. It’s not just about beating the heat—it’s about creating moments that my kids will look back on and smile. Sure, I might end up wetter than I planned, and the yard might look like a tornado went through it, but it’s all worth it when I hear their laughter echoing across the yard.
So, whether you’re battling it out with water balloons or sliding across the grass on a homemade slip ‘n slide, don’t be afraid to get a little wet this summer. Trust me, your kids will thank you for it—and you’ll have just as much fun as they do.
