For When It's Too Darn Hot

Hot day and you still want to get out of the house? I get it.  I always feel more human if I can walk out the door at least once in a day– but if you are like me and my little guy– it doesn’t take crazy heat for us to be MELTING.  Try these ideas on those hot summer days to have a little fun.

1) Indoor Playgrounds. I love Peekabook Playground (Bayville) but we also frequent Go Playland (Toms River) in the Ocean County Mall and the playground inside the Monmouth Museum is pretty fun too. Call a friend and make it a play date that you doesn’t require sunscreen.

2) Color Me Mine (Toms River) I love a little painting project and this is a great place where you can find a fun ceramic to paint rather than a slice of paper from your home printer.  This is also a perfect idea if you have a loved one with a birthday coming up.  Bring the kiddos here to create a home made present from the heart!

3) Music Man Ice Cream Shoppe (Lavalette)  This place is SO CUTE.  Bring the whole family for ice cream and a show in this old fashioned style parlor.  They do theme nights and often cover Disney classics that will be recognizable to your littles.  This place is small so be sure to make a reservation ahead of time.

4) Bowling.  Don’t underestimate how fun this classic activity is for little kids.  Put up the bumpers and grab one of the bowling ramps for kids to keep this inside activity fun and successful for your littles.

5) Storytime.  Many Barnes and Noble branches have a story time that you can drop-in for, but don’t forget about local libraries or privately owned bookstores as well!  These simple events are fantastic for a quick simple outing–just brace yourself if you need to pass the toy aisles!

6) Barnacle Bills (Ortley Beach).  Maybe a little sun is ok, but you don’t want to overdo it.  Try a visit to Barnacle Bills.  You can play mini golf outside but on the hot days, the course is covered in misters to keep your party cool.  Follow up golf with a stop inside the ice cream shop and the connecting arcade.  

7) Slime University (Toms River) This company has really upped their game.  They offer the classic slime making activity but you can also do tye dye, sand art and more!  Get your hands dirty with your kiddos in a nice controlled environment!