Summer Fun Under One

After the snow, sleet and rain, we are bursting with excitement to see the summer sun shining! This time last year we were (slowly) approaching the final few weeks of pregnancy and getting ready to meet our little ones. Now that we can walk without waddling and don’t feel nauseous at the sight of a roast chicken (anyone else have this issue?), we’re excited to spend our lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer with our babes. Check out a few summer activities that are absolutely perfect for children one or younger.

Pitch a tent
What is it about a small child crawling in and out of a tent that is absolutely adorable? Before the temps were on the rise, Lindsay placed an infant tent indoors so her baby girl could get comfortable with her little dwelling. She instantly fell in love with it and it’s been a staple on the patio ever since. Many child-focused tents consist of UV-protected materials and bug-free closures to ensure your littles ones are safe and sound. 

Day trippin’
If you’re not able to take a full blown vacay, consider a road trip! Some of our favourite family trips this year have been driving an hour out of town and taking in the small town charm of rural Nova Scotia. Walks through the main street, small cafes and book shops, and discovering home-grown boutiques and restaurants is the perfect way to spend a sunny Saturday. 

Climb every mountain
In Nova Scotia, there are so many beautiful trails to explore by bike or on foot. Besides getting in your steps, the views are absolutely breathtaking. Baby boutiques offer several carriers (front and/or back facing) to support your baby’s height and weight and fit your frame.
 
Homemade popsicles
After a long hike, it may be time to cool off with some icy goodness made with love. Homemade popsicles are a great way to offer your wee ones something refreshing without loading them up on sugar. Yogourt and fruit or just straight up cucumber water makes a delicious summer treat. (Parent hack: we’ve found these also come in handy to help our teething babies when unpleasant pain sets in.)
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Beach days
We’re excited for our first trip to the beach, but we’re pulling out all the stops when it comes to sun safety. Beach tents and parasols, sunscreen, sun hats, UV-protected swimwear and slick mini shades are all on our “bring to the beach” list. Our cute wicker beach totes may not cut it anymore! 

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Mommy and me exercise groups
Break a sweat and make a few new friends by joining a local ‘mommy and me’ exercise group. From walks around town to yoga in the park, check out what programs are offered in your ‘hood.
 
Music in the park
We recently discovered our local Public Gardens offers music for children during the summer months. Our little ones are just starting to show some rhythm with hand-clapping and bum-bouncing so we know they’ll absolutely love this!

Patio dining
A glass of vino on a patio downtown used to be one of the first signs of summer when we were footloose and fancy-free. And while a glass of goodness al fresca doesn’t present itself as often as it used to, we’re still not ruling out a few trips to our favourite outdoor eateries. 

What summer activities top your list with little ones? Happy summer!

Jacqueline and Lindsay xo