The long, hot summer months may seem unending for parents who are trying to keep their kids busy and cool. There are only so many trips to the zoo or the water park that a parent can take—all of these things cost money and take time out of work. If only the kids could stay cool and engaged at home, while parents are able to get some work done!
Good news, folks. It’s possible! Plus, it’s possible without breaking the bank, which is what most parents actually want to hear. With a few easy life hacks, you can have your kids sitting in the cool air or even enjoying a water slide without leaving your home office. Want to learn more? Read below for all the details.
First things first: Fix up your AC unit.
An inefficient air conditioner is the last thing you need as a parent trying to keep your kids (and yourself) cool during the summer months. Think about it—the air conditioner will be running overtime, pushing cool air through debris or clogged vents and ducts, and costing you a pretty penny on your energy bills at the same time. The efficiency of your air conditioner has a clear connection to lower energy bills and happier kids, which means that the efficiency of your air conditioner also has a clear connection to a happier you. What this means, essentially, is that the first step should be calling in technicians to improve the efficiency of your AC this summer and maybe even install a smart thermostat or programmable thermostat so that you can automate temperatures.
Did you know that you can rent water slides and bounce houses?
Okay, you might think that this sounds crazy but it actually makes a lot of sense. On a hot day, your kids will be overjoyed to have a bounce house or water slide to enjoy in the backyard. It means hours of (safe) fun that keep your kids happy and engaged. Renting a water slide in Long Island, for example, is as simple as going online and reserving your rental. You can even get it for a whole day and share the costs with other parents. It’s a great way to have the kids enjoy hot summer days while you stay inside in the cool air conditioning.
Freeze healthy snacks ahead of time.
This is what your appliances are for! Making smoothie popsicles or other fun, frozen treats can help your kids cool off and stay healthy at the same time. Plus, having frozen or cool snacks prepared ahead of time means that you can just point your kids in the direction of the freezer instead of interrupting your workday to get them a sandwich or cut up some fruit. Make sure to buy popsicle molds that are dishwasher-safe so that you can save on clean-up time later.
Join forces with other parents in the neighborhood.
You’re not alone in this struggle, and that’s worth remembering! If you’re in Long Island, for example, look to parent groups on social media to find other folks who are also looking for a good idea (or a few good ideas) to keep their kids cool and happy. Make a schedule that has the kids hanging out in different homes throughout the week. Share the costs of inflatables and other party rentals to make things more affordable. A small change to your schedule can take a major load off your shoulders. Plus, you might just make some lifelong friends in this way.
There are plenty of creative ways to have fun on hot summer days. Whether it’s calling a rental company or cleaning your AC unit’s dirty filters, take these concrete steps and enjoy a fun summer (with low electric bills) sooner!