Play catch with... water balloons
Fill up your balloons with water and play catch. Start close together and move farther and farther apart. See how far you can get from the other person before the water balloon drops and breaks. You can play with two people or in groups of three or more. At the end, have a good old-fashioned water balloon fight!
What you'll need: Water balloons and your family. If you want to get creative, make something to catch the balloons in. One idea is to use milk jugs. Cut off the bottoms and flip them over. Hold on to the jug handle and go!
Slip-n-slide races
Get your hands on a duel-lane Slip-n-slide or set up single lane slides side-by-side. Set up races for the kids and time them as they race down the slides. The children will love this fun and competitive way to beat the heat.
What you'll need: Slip-n-slide, a hose and a hot afternoon!
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Family Summer Olympics
In the spirit of the 2012 Summer Olympic games, host your own family Olympics . From relay races to diving competitions to synchronized swimming, you and your kids can channel your inner Michael Phelps and even hand out silver, gold and bronze medals at the end.
What you'll need: A pool, some knowlege about the London 2012 Games and gold, silver and bronze medals .
Sandcastle building contests
Every summer tons of beaches host sand-castle building contests. This weekend, grab your beach gear and your family and head to your local shore to watch experts turn sand into masterpieces. And many, including the sand sculpting contest held in Imperial Beach, California encourage children to participate.
Can't find a contest in your area? Host your own!
What you'll need: A beach, shovels, buckets and your creative juices.
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Wash the car!
Grab a bucket of suds, the hose and your brood. Turn on the tunes, throw on your suits and have fun while you clean your car. This will be a great way to soak up some sun while also getting some work done. After you park the sparkling automobile in the garage, have a water fight!
What you'll need: A bucket, soap, a hose and some elbow grease.
More family water activities
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