Beating the Summer Heat: How Our Homeschool Family Managed to Enjoy 2-3 Hours Outside Daily During the Hottest Months
As a faith-based homeschool family, we recognize the importance of spending time outdoors. It not only allows our children to connect with God's creation but also provides countless benefits for their physical and mental well-being.
🥵 However, the summer heat can sometimes make it challenging to stay outside for extended periods. Here’s how we manage to enjoy 2-3 hours outdoors every day, even during the hottest months, and some tips for other families looking to do the same.
1. Early Morning and Late Afternoon Playtimes
We’ve found that the early morning and late afternoon are the best times to be outside during summer. The temperatures are cooler, and the sun is less intense, reducing the risk of heat-related issues. This schedule also aligns with our homeschooling routine, allowing us to enjoy the fresh air before or after our studies.
2. Water Play to Stay Cool
Water activities are a staple in our summer routine. Whether it’s running through the sprinkler, having a water hose fight, or visiting a beach, lake or a friends pool, incorporating water into our playtime helps keep everyone cool and refreshed. We also enjoy nature-based water activities like pond dipping or exploring streams, which provide an educational element as well.
3. Shady Retreats and Cool Down Spots
Creating relaxing shaded areas in our yard with trees, mud play and a hammock provides a comfortable retreat from the sun. We also set up cool-down spots with popsicles , water misters, and plenty of cold drinks to help the kids recharge and stay hydrated.
4. Flexible Outdoor Activities at Camp
We had 4 weeks of outdoor summer camp. To avoid overheating, we mix active play with more relaxed activities. For example, we might play a game of tag followed by a quieter nature walk or have a picnic under a shady tree. This balance ensures that everyone stays engaged without overexerting themselves in the heat. We also had a competition at camp to see who could drink the most water! 💦
5. Educational Outdoor Adventures
We use our outdoor time to complement our homeschooling curriculum. Nature walks become biology lessons, and gardening teaches responsibility and the basics of botany. These activities not only enrich our children’s learning experience but also encourage them to appreciate the natural world.
6. Bible Study and School Work in Nature
As a faith-based family, we often incorporate moments of Bible reading and prayer into our outdoor time. This could be a quiet moment in the hammock or a family discussion under a tree. These times allow us to connect with each other and our faith in a peaceful setting.
For more ideas on keeping your kids active and engaged outdoors, check out our PDF guide on Summertime No-Screen Activities.
It’s packed with fun and creative ways to enjoy the summer without relying on screens.
Get your copy of the Summertime No-Screen Activities PDF before the summer ends!
Final Thoughts…
Managing the summer heat while still enjoying the outdoors is all about planning, creativity, and a willingness to adapt. As a homeschool family, these moments outside are invaluable for learning, bonding, and appreciating the beauty of creation.
We hope our experiences inspire you to make the most of the summer months with your family, staying active and connected to the world around you.
Get your Summertime No-screen Activities here.
As a dedicated wife and homeschooling mother of four, I bring a wealth of experience and passion to my roles as the Recess & Results National Director and a Homeschool Coach. My mission is to inspire families to live their best lives for Christ, blending education, faith, and active lifestyles in a way that nurtures both body and spirit.
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