Temperatures are hotter than ever and with summer camps closed and families spending more time together, backyard activities are on the rise. But, to enjoy the summer fully you will need these essential items in your life and you can totally trust me on this one because I love summer , and have since I was a little girl. I have vivid memories of running around a pool with my cousins and perfecting our bombs away jumps into the cold, refreshing water.

There’s still time to enjoy this unprecedented summer that has left online retailers sold out of kiddie pools and sand toys. Worry not, all the items I recommend below are available for you to buy right now, so block your calendar for some family fun in the sun, wherever that may be—the beach, the lake, your backyard, a quiet street or a city park.

Here are some of my favorites for the little ones in the family:


Plan Toys sand set

Plan toys sand set

Ideal for the beach (or sandbox) this play set lets your kiddos play for hours on end. The bottom of the bucket and sides of shovels also work as sand stamps for extra fun.

Babiators sunglasses

Babiators

Who doesn’t love a pair of cool sunglasses? These ones are perfect for babies up to 4 years old. Keeping eyes protected from sun rays and having your kids looking super fly.

Plan Toys mini golf set

Plan Toys Wooden Mini Golf Set

Now that sports are back on TV, why not get your little one to practice their swing in your back yard. Maybe they can burn off some steam while hitting a hole in one! The set includes two kid-sized clubs, two wooden balls, three tracks, a hole and a bag for storage.

Saint Madoxx ruffle bathing suit

Saint Madoxx Ashlyn girls one piece in Cali Stripe

I’m obsessed with this print and style of swimsuit and wish they would make it in my size (they only go up to size 10 in kids). The quality is amazing and the fabric is gentle on sensitive skin.

Crocs

Crocs Kidsu2019 Bayaband Clog

This summer we became a Crocs family. They are so easy to put on tiny feet and withstand wear and tear for several seasons (or handed down to new members of the family). Plus, kids can get in the water with them no problem.

$34.99

Plan Toys water play set

Plan toys Water play set

Water tables have been sold out all Summer long, this one is not only still available for you to buy ASAP but also so much fun. It includes a rubbery tray, two boats, two figurines, some fishies and hours of open play.

iPlay bucket sunhat

iPlay Breathable Swim and Sun Bucket Hat

I have this hat in different sizes for all my kids, and it’s the one hat even my three year old will keep on his head all day long. It’s breathable which keeps heads cool and it can be worn in the water. It dries super fast, which makes for easy packing at the beach when it’s time to go home.

$14.99

Cheeky Chickadee rash guard

Cheeky Chickadee Swan Girls Long Sleeve Zip Swimmers

For extra cuteness, you can do a mama and mini matching set with this adorable rash guard. The brand offers matching guards in both gendered and genderless options so the whole family can rock the same print.

$30.36

Reima rash guard

Reima Girls Short-Sleeve Swim Shirt Rash Guard With UPF 50+ Protection

Sun protection is a non-negotiable, especially for little ones. Because of that, we make SPF rash guards mandatory for all of our kids. This style from Reima is excellent quality and runs a little bit large so that you can use it for multiple summers.

NATIVE water shoes

NATIVE shoes Jefferson Polka Dot Print Child

Perfect for running around and swimming, these also come in adult sizes for #twinning. Native shoes are a staple in our household since our oldest learned how to walk and became a fan of playing with sprinklers during the hot NYC days.

Liewood beach set

Liewood Dante Beach set - Dino Mix

This beach set is made of silicone which will allow you to pack it and bring with you wherever you go. It not only looks cute, but it’s made to last as it won’t crack like regular plastic buckets.

$47.95

Sunny Life vest

Sunny Life Float Vest - Sharky

Water safety is so so important, an adult should always be on watch duty when kids are in or near the water. For extra precaution we use this vest. It’s bright colored which allows us to have eyes on our toddler all the time and it fits snuggly to allow him to practice how to swim. The fin on the back just makes it super extra cool.

$48.95

Blowfish tiedye slip-on shoes

Blowfish KIDS' RIO SLIP ON SNEAKER

Easy to slip-on into thanks to its elastic bands, these water sneakers are not only comfortable for summer play but also super on trend with everyone’s new obsession: tie-dye.

$29.99

Baby Bum mineral sunscreen stick

Baby Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Stick-Fragrance Free

Perfect for all the faces, this fragrance free, SPF 50 stick will keep the entire family safe from the sun. It’s easy to apply and stays on through sweat and water.

$9.99

Rock the Locks hair detangler

Rock the Locks Funky Fruit Detangler

After a full day of playing outside, covered in spf and maybe even sand, this detangler will help you remove knots from all hair types in time for bedtime. It’s cruelty free and infused with essential oils which makes it smell so so good.

$6.99

Good For Your Girls aluminum free deodorant

Good for your girls deodorant

This scented deodorant is recommended for ages 8 and up. It’s made of all natural, plant-based products which will keep your children’s’ skin soft and protected.

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