Okay, let’s be real for a second. It’s August. The kids are feral. The pool club has lost its luster. The snack budget is wrecked, the screen time rules are barely hanging on (Ha! Just kidding – they went out the window weeeeeeks ago), and if you hear “I’m bored” one more time, you might just move out to the garage and call it home.
BUT – we’re almost there, friends. Back-to-school is on the horizon. Until then, here’s how I’m surviving (and occasionally thriving?) during these last weeks of summer – with some must-haves that are actually helping.
☀️ For Getting Outside Without Melting
1. Pop-Up Shade Tent
This bad boy has saved me at the beach, park, backyard – you name it. Easy to set up, big enough for you and the kids, and SPF 50. Shop the one I use
2. Insulated Water Bottles (That Keep Stuff COLD)
Because lukewarm juice is a crime. These bottles are leak-proof and come in fun colors for everyone. The Boys’ fave waterbottles
3. Reusable Water Balloons
No mess, no waste, just endless squealing laughter. Take them to the pool, to the beach, or just in the backyard. Worth every penny. Legit hours of fun.
4. Bug-Repellent Stickers
Kid-safe, DEET-free, and honestly? Kinda cute. Way easier than wrestling them with spray. (Although, I also have regular OFF on my list since I’m allergic to mosquito bites and don’t want to ruin my day by swigging Zyrtec.) Snag the stickers here
5. Cooling Towels
A total game-changer at the zoo, splash pad, or just walking to the mailbox in August heat. These are my fave
🧩 For Keeping Kids Busy (aka: Buying You 20 Minutes of Quiet)
6. Summer Activity Book Kit
Crosswords, sticker pages, coloring – it’s a screen-free dream. Order the kit
7. Indoor & Outdoor Obstacle Course Sets
Rainy day? Too hot to function? This turns your living room into a mini ninja zone. Grab the indoor set.
Ready to take the action outside? This outdoor set creates a ninja warrior course in your backyard. Check it out
8. Sidewalk Chalk Paint
Less dusty than traditional chalk, more fun for everyone. Pro tip: let them “paint” the driveway while you sip something iced. Grab our fave
9. Giant Bubble Wand Kit
Hours. Of. Entertainment. Also: extremely fun for adults. Find the kit here
10. Kid-Friendly Audiobooks
Great for quiet time, car rides, or letting your kids chill on the couch while you do… literally anything else. Start a free Audible trial
🧖♀️ For Your Own Sanity (Yes, You’re Allowed)
11. Noise-Canceling Earbuds
Let the chaos continue while you zone out to a podcast. You’re welcome. These are under $75 and amazing
12. Mom-Only Snacks
Hide them high. Eat them in peace. I’m obsessed with these Starbucks Cold Brews in a can. Snack stash restock
13. A Cute Water Bottle You’ll Actually Use
Because you deserve hydration in a pastel vessel. I love this one
14. Foot Spa
Because your summer feet deserve a spa moment too. (PS: This one is currently 55% off!) Treat your tootsies
15. Hydrating Eye Masks
Keep them in the fridge. Apply while hiding in the bathroom. Feel like a new woman. These are my go-to
🍦 Bonus Sanity-Savers (That Don’t Involve Spending $200)
- Create an Art Cart to keep kids’ art supplies within easy reach
- Make a snack basket the kids can reach themselves
- Rotate toys – hide half for a week, then swap them
- “Quiet time” bins with books, puzzles, and one snack
- Create a DIY “cool down” station: fan, mini spray bottle, cooling towel, and a popsicle
🛍️ Bonus: My Amazon List with Everything In One Spot
Too many tabs? I got you. Shop the full Summer Sanity list
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