No pool?
Cool off with these easy, free, at-home water activities
When you think of summer break, do you think of long, sunny days outside and splashing in the pool? Same! Living in Florida, pools always felt like part of the landscape—every neighborhood had one! But the truth is, many families (even here in the Sunshine State) are navigating a long, hot summer without a backyard pool.
The good news? You don’t need a pool to cool off and have a blast. These free, easy water activities are perfect for turning your yard, driveway, or even balcony into a splash zone your kids will love—and the whole family can enjoy together. 💦💧🌊
1. DIY Water Soup (great for toddlers!) 🥄
I love to use a big pot or large plastic storage container, fill it with water, any rubber/water-safe toys you have, and large mixing spoons. Let the kids play, stir their “soup”, and add and remove toys.
HealthyMom Tip: don’t feel like you need to buy water toys for this. I’ve used rubber funnels, measuring cups, metal spoons, mini balls, and more for toys to mix into the water!
2. Themed Bath 🛀🏼
This might not be a “cool-off” activity per se, but it is SO fun! Use a non-toxic, tear-free bubble bath soap and add in your kid’s favorite water toys. I love floating ducks, foam letters, boats, etc. You can even add little lights and glow in the dark items and turn off the lights for a super fun bath.
3. DIY Splash Pad 💦
Kids love a splash pad, and it keeps them entertained for hours. Don’t feel any need to buy one though! You can easily make your own with trash bags, a plastic tarp, a shower curtain liner, or a disposable tablecloth. Spray it with water and let kids splish and splash!
4. Sprinkler 🌧️
Buy a cheap, cute sprinkler and connect it to the hose. Let the kids run through it! You can even set up a little “obstacle” course using pool noodles and other toys for them to get through before getting to the sprinkler.
5. Water Balloons 🎈
Play a classic game of water balloon toss. Another fun game is to put a water balloon between two people (facing each other or facing away from each other) and try to see which team can keep the balloon from bursting the longest while walking.
6. At-Home Car Wash 🚗
Moms and dads, you will love this one just as much as the kids do! Let them get in bathing suits or old clothing, get out sponges, rags, buckets of water, and a hose, and let them scrub down and rinse the car. Be sure to use no-scratch sponges!
Take this article as your reminder that you don’t need a fancy backyard setup—or even a pool—to make amazing summer memories. With some basic supplies and creativity, you can create super fun water-activities. Your kids won’t even be asking about a pool!
Try a few of these out this summer and let me know which one your kids loved most! Tag me in your water adventures or hit reply to share your favorite no-pool water activity—I’d love to feature it in a future post! 💧☀️💛