The summer holidays are here and while a bit of screen time is inevitable, there’s nothing better than fresh air, muddy knees and full-on outdoor fun. Whether you’ve got a garden, a local park or just a patch of pavement to play with, these 10 simple summer activities are easy to set up and guaranteed to wear them out in the best way.

So, grab your waterproofs, pop on the wellies and let’s get stuck into a summer of mess, laughter and muddy adventures.

1. Summer Puddle Jumping.

British summer wouldn’t be complete without a surprise downpour. Instead of staying indoors, pop on a pair of Bubble Boots and head out to find the best local puddles. It’s simple, joyful and guaranteed to bring giggles.

Top tip:

Unlined waterproofs are ideal for warmer rainy days:

Our lightweight rain sets or dungarees keep kids dry but cool.

2. Nature Scavenger Hunt.

Create a quick list of things to find:

  • A blackbird feather
  • A smooth pebble or stone
  • A dandelion or daisy flower
  • A flexible twig or small branch
  • A piece of tree bark
  • A sycamore or oak leaf
  • A conker (horse chestnut)

Kids love ticking things off and it turns even a short walk into a wild adventure.

3. Back Garden Obstacle Course

Use whatever you’ve got, cushions, buckets, string, old tyres and build an outdoor course. Hop, crawl, balance and jump their way through. Add a water element if it’s warm!

4. Mud Kitchen Magic

Grab some old pots, spoons, and a bucket of water. Add mud, flowers, leaves, or food colouring for an outdoor potion lab or pretend café.

Got forest school fans?

Our puddle suits and waterproof mittens are perfect for keeping mess outside where it belongs.

Plus, if you want to find out why mud kitchens are such a hit with kids and parents! Check out our Top 6 Benefits of Mud Kitchens blog for some inspiring ideas.

5. Leaf & Bark Rubbings

Take paper and crayons or chalk outside and let them collect textures from tree trunks, fence posts or paving stones. A great way to explore nature creatively.

6. Welly Throwing Competition

A classic. Line the kids up, give them one wellie each, and see who can launch it the furthest across the garden or field. Great for all ages.

7. Garden Water Slide

If the sun decides to show up, lay out a tarpaulin on a grassy slope, add water and a splash of washing-up liquid, and let them slide away! (Waterproof dungarees = extra glide!)

8. Summer Bug Hotel Building

Use sticks, leaves, stones, bamboo canes or flowerpots to create a cosy corner for insects. A brilliant way to learn about minibeasts and habitats.

9. Chalk Art Pavement Gallery

Let kids turn your driveway or patio into an art exhibition with chalks. Add themes, challenges or games like hopscotch and chalk mazes.

10. Mini Tent or Den Building

Use sheets, waterproofs, branches, even the washing line to create a shady hideout. Great for independent play and quiet time for them and for you.

camping with kids waterproofs

You don’t need to plan big outings or spend loads of money to keep your kids entertained outdoors this summer.

With a bit of imagination and the right kit, the whole garden or local park becomes a playground.

Explore our full waterproof collection for summer-ready jackets, dungarees and puddle suits, perfect for spontaneous adventures, forest school play, and of course, a whole lot of mud.